The AOL Community Info Blog

Everywhere we turn these days, people warn us of sure destruction if we tell others our Social Security number. We hear about the immediate need for identity theft protection, and others warn about the latest computer virus.

All of this information is important.

But, there is something else you should know. It is OK to talk to other people. It is even OK to talk to other people online. Most of them are really nice people. Many of them share your interests. You might even start a lifelong friendship with someone that you never actually meet in person.

It is really easy to balance your wish to meet people and your need to be safe online. Here are a few tips. Think of online communities like your favorite coffee shop.

Too. Much. Information. If you went to a coffee shop, you wouldn't announce your home phone number (or any other personal information) to the people in line. Don't do it online either.

Lesson: If you wouldn't do it in line, don't do it online.

Who Was That? In a coffee shop, you whisper to share something private. You do this because the table next to you may hear what you are saying.

Online communities are filled with knowledgeable, friendly, wonderful people. Once you get to know a few of them, you might feel comfortable sharing personal information in your community. Keep in mind that even though you only see your friends in the community, other people can be reading what you say in public spaces like chat rooms, public blogs and message boards.

Just because you talk to the same people all the time, doesn't mean that others aren't reading what you say.

Lesson: Don't let eavesdroppers know too much.

A Few Bad Muffins: Anywhere you go, there are good people and there are bad people. Most people are basically good, and I believe that most people want to help if they can. But, we still have to watch out for the one person who is up to no good. Make sure you do everything you can to avoid telling that person any personal information about you or your family.

Lesson: Have a good time, but be careful.

"Chat Names" Some people choose to create screen names that they use to participate in their chat room or message board. That way they can block all mail or IMs from everyone, then choose with whom they want to share their e-mail address.

Lesson: Be all you want to be.

Keep the Kids Close: AOL members have a lot of tools to help keep their kids safe. Something you might not think of is what information you should and shouldn't share about your kids. You probably already tell your kids to not share any information about themselves with people online (including where they go to school, their full names, etc.). You should follow the same advice on their behalf.

Lesson: Keep everyone in the family safe.

~ Francis

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