Using the internet safely

If you use chat rooms remember that people sometimes make stuff up to try and be your friend. They might not be who they say they are. You don’t want to be friends with people like that. They’re bad news.

If you meet someone in a chat room who says bad stuff about your parents or friends tell an adult you trust like your parents, carer or a teacher.

It can be dangerous meeting someone you have only been in touch with online. If you talk to them about meeting up it is really important that you tell your parent or carer. If you do arrange to meet someone take your parent or carer with you and meet in the daytime, somewhere public like a busy cafe.

If you go in a chat room don’t use your real name, use initials or a nickname.

Make sure a parent, teacher or carer knows when you're on the internet.

If you get an e-mail with rude stuff in it, tell an adult you trust straight away and DON'T reply to it! Remember that it's not your fault that someone has sent you this.

It's illegal to download some of the music, games and images you find online – if in doubt, ask an adult you trust!

If something has happened that’s worrying you call the NSPCC Child Protection Helpline on 0808 800 5000 – it’s open all day and night and is free.

Or call Childline free on 08001111. Calls are free from most mobiles and will not show up on your phone bill.