Chat rooms are virtual places on the Internet where people can type messages that will appear on other people's computers almost immediately. Chats are usually anonymous since the participants use nicknames to identify themselves.
Many people refer to instant message (IM) conversations as "chatting," but there is a slight difference between IM and chat. IM usually refers to a conversation between two people, whereas chat is a conversation with a group.
Chat room safety tips for kids
Monitor your child's use of chat. Remember, kids can participate in chats using Web sites, chat software programs, cell phones, and even some online games.
Teach your kids not to download programs, music, or files without your permission. File-sharing and taking text, images, or artwork from the Web may infringe on copyright laws and can be illegal.
Tell your child that if something in a chat room makes them feel uncomfortable, they should immediately leave the chat room immediately and tell an adult.
Insist that your child never send photographs of themselves to anyone they meet in a chat room.
Learn the chat lingo. Kids often communicate using shorthand. For example, POS means "Parent over Shoulder."
Tell kids to stick to moderated chats.
Make sure your teens check with you before making financial transactions online, including ordering, buying, or selling items.
Discuss online gambling and its potential risks with your teens. Remind them that it is illegal for them to gamble online.
Help protect them from spam. Tell your teens not to give out their e-mail address online, not to respond to junk mail, and to use e-mail filters.
Chat room safety tips for you
Never give out your personal information in a chat room
Never agree to meet a stranger in person whom you met in a chat room
When you're asked to enter or sign up for a chat nickname, choose a name that doesn't give away your personal information. For example, you might use SassySue instead of DetroitSue.
Be wary of other chatters who ask you to meet in private chat rooms.
Check the terms and conditions, code of conduct, and privacy statement at the chat site before you begin chatting.
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