• Be aware, Instant Messaging is never 100% secure. 
• Instant Messaging provides an easy way for a stranger to contact you or find out vital information about you. 
• If IM privacy settings are not set on your IM account, anyone could watch you while you are online 

• Be sure to set your privacy settings 
• Allow only people you know "IRL" (in real life) on your "buddy list." 
• If you receive an IM from someone not on your "buddy list" or from a stranger, you can block them from contacting you. 
• Be sure not to provide any personal information about you or your family in your "buddy info" or profile. 

It is illegal: 
 

• To threaten people over the Internet or phone. 
• To send graphic photos to people under the age of 18. 
• To harass or bully anyone. 
• To use other people's credit cards. 
• To download music without permission. 
• To use someone else's identity without permission including logging on to someone else's account. 

• Do not give out your name, address, phone #, photo, birthday or social security number. 
• Use extreme caution when writing your profile. 
• Protect your password from others, even your friends. 
• Beware of free offers and surveys. 

• Never respond if you feel uncomfortable. 
• Never say you are alone. 
• Don't answer chat room questions, even with lies.

• Kids and teens should not make online purchases. 
• Use caution when using Morpheus, Kazaa or Grokster. Check with your parents and your school before using file-sharing programs. 
• Enable firewalls. 
• Use Virus Checkers. 
• Install Security updates from your Internet Service Provider (ISP).

• On-line "friends" are still strangers. 
• Meetings are forbidden. 
• People on the Internet may have many identities.