Staying Safe Online

[James H]

The Kingfisher FM Forum is open to all age groups - including those under the age of 18. With this in mind please read the following information. I know that this is taught at school, and I know you've probably heard it hundreds of times before, but we just want you to stay safe on this and any other forum.

The internet is a huge place. There are a lot of nice people out there, but there are also a lot of dodgy characters out there too, and they are smarter than you. They know how to talk to you, they know how to find out information about you. Worried? You should be.

Chatting to people is great, you can make new friends and learn lots about all sorts of stuff by talking to people you wouldn't normally meet day to day. However you do need to stay safe and to help you I have put together some words of wisdom which I would ask you to read and take on-board.

   * Never give out your personal details to someone you meet online. This means your phone number, address, your school/college or anything which can lead someone to contact you in real life.

   * If you do want to meet someone in real life, arrange it online without giving your details and when you do go, don't go alone. Meet up in a public place, and take a friend or more with you AS WELL AS telling an adult or friend where your are going. Arrange the meeting as a gathering of several people rather than just the two of you and don't put yourself into any situation which could lead to your safety being compromised.

   * Always tell your parents or guardians where you are going at all times.

   * If you come across anyone on the Kingfisher FM Forum who worries you, tell myself, ANY other Admin/Moderator by PM. There is pretty much someone around most of the time and you are welcome to PM them at any time.

   * Think carefully before getting into any kind of relationship with people online. It's impossible to have a relationship with someone you have never met.

This may all sound scary, daunting, and ridiculous on a forum, but if you use common sense and be careful you can continue to enjoy  the Kingfisher FM Forum and all it has to offer.

Thank you for reading this statement.