The internet can be a great place to meet other lesbian and bisexual teens. But the internet can also be a place where dangers lurk and people prey on unsuspecting lesbian and bisexual teens. Here are some tips for lesbian and bisexual teens to keep yourself safe on the internet.
1. Trust Your Instincts
Your instincts are your best defense. Trust them. Don't let someone pressure you into something you are not comfortable with. Don't agree to meet someone, share personal information or anything else with someone if your gut is telling you that something is amiss. Don't worry about hurting someone's feelings, your safety is more important than someone's feelings.2. Keep Personal Information Personal
Teenagers are especially vulnerable on the internet. Keep your personal information to yourself by using a screen name instead of your real name. Keep private your address, phone number or links to websites that might have this information.3. Never meet a stranger in person
Sure, she may seem nice online, but we have all heard the stories of people who have met someone on the internet who has turned to out exploit them in some way. You never know if someone is who they really say they are. If you want to meet someone in person, make sure a real live friend can vouch for them. Bring your friend along to the meeting. 4. Keep Your Passwords Private
Don't share your password with friends. If a friend wants to help with your blog or myspace page, have them do it from your computer where you type in your password. 5. Don't respond to inappropriate emails
Sometimes people just try to get a rise out of you. They might send you something sexually explicit or otherwise inappropriate just to see how you will react. The best advice is to ignore the message and block that person from sending you more messages. Likewise, don't post anything inappropriate on your blog or personal website. It will just invite people with lude intentions to your site. Remember, any information you put up on your personal website can be seen by the public, including your parents, potential employers and colleges.6. Stay away from Adult-Only site
There are plenty of good sites for gay and lesbian teenagers, including the
Lesbian Life Forum, which has a nice mix of adults and teenagers. Enjoy sites that are geared toward teenagers.
7. Don't be a Loner
Make sure someone knows about the sites you visit and what your online activity is. If you're not out to your parents, tell a trusted adult, like a school GSA counselor or even another teen friend. If your friends have concerns about your internet safety, listen to them. 8. Be Nice
Don't get into flaming and other arguments online which may escalate. Some people have nothing better to do than pick fights on line. Be bigger than that and stay out of them.9. Be Leery of People Who ask for Your Personal Information
If someone asks too many personal questions, be cautious. If a stranger wants to know your real name, where you live or your phone number, don't share it. 10. Report Harassment
If someone is bullying you, threatening you, spreading rumors or in any other way harassing you online, you should report them.
Here's how.
