Some chat rooms can be fun but check out these tips to make sure you stay safe -
if you're asked for a screen name to use in a chat room use a nickname, never your real name
if you're in a chat room and you start feeling uncomfortable about what someone's saying, log off and tell an adult you trust straight away
If you use chat rooms remember that people sometimes make stuff up to try and be your friend. Someone who seems really cool and seems to understand you may not be telling the truth about who they are
if you get an e-mail telling you not to tell your parents or carer about it, don't reply and tell the parent or carer straight away
if you meet someone in a chat room who tries to turn you against your parents, teachers or friends, stop chatting to them and tell someone you trust
it may seem a pain but make sure someone like a parent or carer knows when you're online
it can be dangerous meeting someone you have only been in touch with online. If you talk about meeting up make sure you tell your parent or carer. If you do arrange to meet someone, do not to go alone. Ask an adult or a friend to go with you and arrange to meet in the day, somewhere public like a cafe.
Buying things online
It can be wicked buying stuff online and whether you’re buying CDs, games or clothes you can often get a better deal by shopping online.
Who you can tell if you're worried
If you feel comfortable, you can talk to an adult you trust, such as a teacher or relative.
If you prefer, you can talk to Childline. A confidential helpline run by the NSPCC. You can call them on 0800 1111 or go online at www.childline.org.uk (link opens in a new window)
If you are worried about something that is happening to you online, you can report it through ClickCEOP (link opens in a new window)
