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Don't go to meet people you know only
from the internet!
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If you decide you're going to meet
someone anyway, take a friend with you and make sure your parents
(at least a trusted friend) know where you're going and who you're
with.
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Make sure the person you're meeting
knows that you've told an adult or friend what you're
doing.
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Go somewhere where there are lots of
other people around - inside a busy mall, for example (not the
person's home or car!!).
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Arrange the meeting so, you can see
the person from a distance, that way if the guy with the "young
swimmer's bod" turns out to be a ancient whale, you can skip the
meet.
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Don't give out personal information
over the internet - don't tell anyone things like your real
name, phone number, or address .
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If someone you know from a chat room
or board wants you to send them pictures or personal info - stop
and think! Why are they asking, and can you be sure they're who
they say they are? What would be the reaction if you, your friends
or your family saw that picture posted somewhere else on the web?
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If you're going to call anyone you've
met online use Call Blocking *67 (this blocks your name and number
from appearing on the other person's caller ID).
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Sometimes you might want to go along
to something you've heard about online - maybe a youth group,
counseling or information sessions. A bit of common sense is needed
here - and if you're unsure, always ask someone else's
opinion.