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1. Do stay in control
Remember, you can leave just as easily as you entered the chat room with the click of a mouse. Alternatively, if someone has your username and keeps bothering you, there is always the option of blocking their emails, reporting them to the chat room moderator, or changing your username so that they can no longer recognise or contact you.
2. Do be aware of stranger danger
Everyone you meet online is a stranger, even though they might seem like a friend. Meeting up with someone you met in a chat room is a bad idea, but if you insist on doing it, play it as safe as possible. Be cautious and follow the rules: take an adult you trust and meet in a public place.
3. Do play it safe
Try to have your online conversations in public; people are less likely to hassle you if other people can see them doing it. Also accepting emails or opening files from people you don't really know can get you into trouble - they may contain viruses, nasty messages or annoying links to stuff you don't want to see.
4. If you are worried or upset about something online, ask for help
Talk to an adult you know well and ask for help if you're worried or upset about anything you've seen or been sent online. Have a list of handy organisations that you can contact at any time for more information or help.
Examples are available at http://www.thinkuknow.co.uk
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1. Don't be naive
People aren't always who they say they are - for example, that sexy 16-year-old Justin Timberlake look-alike you've been chatting to could really to be a 55-year-old man. Be stranger - savvy!
2. Don't disclose too much
Always use a nickname. Don't reveal any contact details for yourself or your friends. Personal information you shouldn't give out includes: full name, home or school address, telephone number, personal email or mobile number.
3. Leave your profile blank
Don't upload descriptions, photos or a profile of yourself - even if do you look great in the photo or your profile makes you out to be the most amazing girl around!
4. Don't arrange to meet up
Never arrange to meet up alone with someone you make friends with online. If you ever do meet up ALWAYS take an adult you trust with you and meet in a public place.
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