Safety Guides for Chat Rooms

Although chat rooms can be fun, interesting and rewarding, it's important to remember that the people you are chatting to are strangers, and that not all of them may be trustworthy. Whilst you shouldn't let this spoil your enjoyment of the chat room, it's always a good idea to follow these few simple guidelines to keep you safe on the Internet.

1. Keep Your Personal Information To Yourself

Never give out your personal information such as your full name, address, telephone number or place of work in a chat room.

2. Choose a Neutral Nickname

Always choose a nickname that does not disclose your gender or any personal information. For example, Susan from Newport would be better choosing a nickname such as "Greenfingers" (as gardening is her favourite pastime) than "NewportSue". However, in some chat rooms, a gender neutral nickname may not be necessary; for example a chat room designed for new mums or one which discusses men's health.

3. Avoid Private Chat

Be wary of other chatters who ask you to meet in private chat rooms. Chat room moderators or guides are usually unable to monitor private conversations, which some chatters will try to use to their advantage. Staying in public chatroom areas means that it will be harder for someone to say something abusive or offensive. Many chat rooms will allow you to block private messages, either globally or for a specific user. Read on for more advice on dealing with abusive chatters ...

4. Be Careful When Meeting Other Chatters in Person

Most sites will warn you against meeting anyone you have met in a chat room in person. However, if you decide to do so, always meet in a public place, tell someone else your plans and if possible bring a friend along with you. (If you are under 18, you must be much more careful and will need to follow these guidelines).

5. Be Wary of Accepting Files

Never accept a file from someone you do not know or trust. If you do download a file from a trusted source, ALWAYS virus check it before opening.

6. Don't Type in Unknown Commands

Never do something a user asks you to do if you don't know what the result may be. For example, another user may ask you to type in a certain command - DON'T DO IT! They may very well be able to gain total control of your system if you do.