FAQs | Cyber-Chat Tips
While it is safe chatting in metoyou Cyber-Counselling Chatroom because you know you are chatting with trained cyber-counsellors, the other common chatrooms like IRC does not guarantee that the person whom you chat with is really who he/she is.
While you continue with your Internet Chat and talk with new people, here are some useful tips to keep in mind. I mean, no harm right?
Be Cyber-Smart!
"Be careful.. do not be a fool"
Do not give your home or handphone number. You never know what web predators can do with your telephone numbers. If you want to keep in contact, you may give them your e-mail address.
"Names... Do Not Use Suggestive Nicknames"
Imagine you name yourself 'hot babe', 'desperado', 'sexy kitten', what is the image that will pop up in your head? Definitely not innocent... so why choose names that will invite unnecessary harassment?
"Think You Are Smart? - There Are Smarter Ones Out There"
You may read all these and say, "I know about the dangers" but then again... do you really know? If everyone knew, there would be no such cases of web predators who get to know teenagers through cyber chat and end up raping them. Prevention is better than Cure. Don't regret it.
"What If You Have Agreed To Meet Your Chatmate?"
Choices man. You have a choice to meet or not to meet. If you have decided to meet your chatmate, you have to think and act smarter than your chat mate. DO NOT go Solo, meaning, ask a few friends to come along. Suggest group dating. If your chat mate refuses, then you better think twice about meeting your chat mate.
"Go Public... Refuse Meeting Or Going To Quiet Places"
Meet in a Public Place where there are people around. Orchard would be great cos its about getting to know, not going to do stuff. If the guy is being pushy, tell him you do not want to continue the date. Don't be Pai Seh. YOU HAVE A RIGHT TO SAY NO! Please do, or you will be doing yourself a dis-favour. Love yourself. Remember, you do not owe anyone anything.
"Tell A Friend"
Give your friend your date's name, phone number and where you will be meeting. Ask your friend to call you on your handphone at one time during your meeting to check on you.
Personal Note:
Remember that no matter how long you have chatted with this chat mate (may be years even), or how many e-mails you have exchanged or number or hours on the phone, you really don't know this person in face. Don't let your guard down.