Online Chat Safety

Meeting people online can be enjoyable, but protecting your privacy and recognising suspicious behaviour matters.

Protect Personal Information

Do not share passwords, banking information, authentication codes, your exact home address or other sensitive information with people you have just met online.

Be Careful With Links and Requests for Money

Unexpected links can lead to harmful or deceptive websites. Be particularly cautious when someone asks for money, gift cards, cryptocurrency, account access or financial help.

Take Your Time

Someone online may not always be who they claim to be. Avoid making important decisions based only on a new online relationship, and verify information independently where appropriate.

Respect Boundaries

Do not harass, threaten or pressure other users. If a conversation makes you uncomfortable, leave it. Blocking and reporting features should be used when available.

Meeting Offline

If you decide to meet someone you first encountered online, consider meeting in a busy public place, tell someone you trust where you are going and arrange your own transport.

Friendly Conversations Start With Respect

Keep your information private and treat other people as you would want to be treated.

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