Most kids use the internet for playing games, listening to music, chatting with friends, shopping, and much more. While using the internet may be a lot of fun, it is important to stay safe while on the internet. The internet can be a dangerous place for kids and teens if you don't play by the rules. Here are some tips for you to remember while surfing the net.
Chat rooms
Avoid talking to strangers. While it can feel exciting meeting new people on the internet, it opens the door to strangers that may be looking to hurt and manipulate kids and teens. The research shows that 23% of kids and teens talk to total strangers. And a lot of kids do have friends who have met a stranger. In fact, more than 10% of kids and teens say they have met face to face with someone they spoke to on line. Agreeing to meet a stranger, even with a friend can be dangerous and life threatening.
It is important to know that chat rooms are one of the places that predators hang out. Take it for granted that no one is really telling the truth about themselves while on the internet. Predators lurk in chat rooms, monitor conversations and then drum up conversations with people they want to victimize.