The Internet is a wonderful way to meet new people from all over the world, but be wise when engaging in relationships. Advice on protocol, how to talk, when to meet.
The Internet has enabled individuals to communicate with one another from all over the globe, and countless new relationships are being formed through a medium that did not exist a few years ago. For once, people are able to get to know other individuals based primarily on qualities aside from physical appearance, and people from other cultures are able to come together and interact on a regular basis.
The Internet allows people to say what they otherwise would sometimes not be able to say in a social encounter due to shyness or other reasons. In this respect, social anxiety is removed. Personality becomes a stronger influence upon relationships, two people communicating themselves, their thoughts and feelings included, to one another. The focus is taken off the surface, so that what is on the inside gains importance, expression the primary vehicle for friendship.
If the Internet were an ideal world, then there would be no drawbacks to counter the positives of online relationships. Unfortunately, with such freedom to be comes those that are unwilling to reveal their true nature. Even though the Internet allows individuals to be more sincere, it also allows them to appear as anyone they fashion themselves to be. Therefore, it is of the utmost importance to approach online relationships with caution. Be aware of dishonesty, expect it even, because it can serve to protect you from a potentially dangerous or at the very least frustrating situation.
There are people who are not honest about themselves online and yet others who prey on innocent individuals, prompting them to meet in a social setting, and then taking advantage of them. Cases of murder have even resulted in such situations. Play it safe when it comes to meeting people online. While strong friendships can be formed, be aware and refrain from giving out your personal information, and never agree to meet a person until you feel very comfortable with them.
Never agree to meet someone in person after just meeting them online. If they are placing undue pressure on you to do so, take that as the first sign that something may not be right. There is nothing wrong with being social, and even exchanging pictures, but before you take the step to meet someone in person, be sure that you've given the relationship enough time to get to know the other person. Even then, it is recommended that you meet them in a public setting to ensure your safety.
Never trust someone solely on their word. Know them by their actions, and time will tell what their true intentions are. If you meet someone online and they begin to get pushy, or you have uneasy feelings about them, trust your instincts. Don't allow yourself to be placed a difficult or potentially dangerous situation. This doesn't mean that you should fear and distrust everyone you talk to online, but always have your eyes open to possible dangers.
If you feel someone is becoming excessively bothersome or is stalking you, and they do not respond to your wishes that they leave you alone, you may want to consider creating a new screen name or account, or blocking them from contacting you. In such a case, that is why you should never give your phone number or physical address out to anyone you've just met online.
With millions accessing the Internet in countries near and far, it has the potential to unite the world, but with the good comes the bad, and it is up to users be responsible and use proper judgment so that the bad can eventually be minimized. This may not happen right away, but you can do your part by making sure that you and your family surf smart. Don't be afraid to get to know your world online, but do it wisely, and you'll likely meet plenty of new friends while strengthening bonds with the old.
