Chat Rooms

Chat rooms are like virtual bars or social clubs. They are places where people who have similar interests can get together to talk about whatever topic they choose. These people can be in the same town or on opposite sides of the earth.

Because you can't know for sure who you're talking to in chat rooms, you should always follow some basic rules. Never give out personal, identifying information about yourself. Never give your full name (using an alias or nickname is always a good idea), never tell your age, and never give out your phone number or address. This is especially important for young chat room users as pedophiles have been known to use chat rooms to ensnare children. Parents should always supervise their children on the internet.

Some basic rules of etiquette are enforced in most chat rooms. You are not to use abusive language, post obscene material, violate copyright laws or incite any type of violence or hatred.