Don't give out personal information that will help identify you in real life.
Talking in general terms to a new online friend is fine but don't give them details that could put you in a vulnerable position. Don't give people your:-
- Full name
- Phone number
- Street name or area
- School name
- Email address
Most people online are cool and want to hang out with you and chat. However, you have no way of knowing for sure who you are chatting to. So stay safe and don't take unnecessary risks.
Confused about what personal information is?
Visit our personal information page to find out more
Never arrange to meet an online friend in person.
The only way someone can physically harm you is if you're in the same location so NEVER meet an online friend.
Don't tell people stuff that you don't want others to know about.
Sometimes we want to share secrets or personal information with our online friends. Be careful about this. Sometimes doing this can become a problem at a later date, especially if a friend becomes an ex-friend.
If you are uncomfortable about something that happens online, ask for help
If something happens online that you feel is not right then talk to someone. It may be just a feeling you have after a conversation or it may be that you share some details that later you wish you hadn't. In this case speak to a vizcop, use the "report abuse" function, contact us and/or speak to your parents or a responsible adult at home.
Be Nice To Other Users
Treat other users with respect and don't discriminate on grounds of religious belief, gender, age, ethnic origin, sexual orientation or by any other criteria . If you are nasty and unkind to others you are at greater risk of being bullied or harassed yourself. It's a vicious cycle and one you should avoid. If someone is nasty to you do not engage with them, ignore them. If they continue, ask for help.
Choose A Suitable Username
Do not choose a username that might attract unwanted attention, offend other users or help to identify who you are.