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Tips
for Teens by Teens
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| 1 |
Remember
- A million times before you've heard that honesty is the best
policy. Most people don't believe that, though. So when you're
out there in cyberspace, watch yourself. You never know when
5'6", blonde and female could actually mean 6'3",
hairy and male. Don't believe everything you see online. |
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| 2 |
Be
leery of those who want to know too much. There's no rule that
says you have to tell them where you live, what your last name
is, or anything else personal. Your business is your business.
Let them stick to theirs. And trust your instincts. If someone
makes you feel uncomfortable, leave. |
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| 3 |
We all
remember the "buddy system" from kindergarten. Sure
you're no longer in kindergarten, but the system still works. If
your planning on meeting up with somebody you met online, bring
a friend, or even your parents, along with you and encourage
your online acquaintance to bring theirs, too. It sounds stupid,
but it's definitely the smart idea. At the very least, make sure
your real friends know what your doing. |
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| 4 |
Before
you take a running leap at the streets and a hard-knock life,
let somebody know how you're feeling. Try talking to an
understanding relative or friend, or call the National Runaway
Switchboard at 1-800-621-4000. They are a better, more
trustworthy resource than a stranger in a chat room. |
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| 5 |
If you
get suspicious e-mails, files or pictures from someone you don't
know and trust, trash them just like any other junk mail. You
could have a lot to lose by trusting someone you've never even
met. The same goes for clicking links or URLs that look
suspicious - just don't do it. |
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| 6 |
Avoid
chat rooms or discussion areas that look sketchy or provocative,
and don't let people online trick you into thinking of them as
real-life friends if you've never met them in person. Just the
same, don't let people goad you into online fights. If you go
looking for trouble on the internet, you'll find it, and things
can get out of control really fast. |
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