safe or not?

From as long back as internet n chat-rooms (and now 'social networking') have been, there has also been loads written and said about the creepy things that can happen to you as a result of these. Back during the ICQ n Yahoo Chat days, I felt that these were just unfair apprehensions of parents to whom these were alien concepts. As any average adolescent, I was wary of the control my parents were allegedly trying to impose! But honestly, their fears don't seem so bizarre anymore. I mean, people DO get killed. Yea well, it is a 1-in-a-100 scenario. Maybe the odds are even bleaker. But still!

Then again, I have met some very awesome people through the same medium . And well, I have been quite lucky(came with its own share of heartache n disappointments of course)... No psychotic stalkers or rapists in disguise! So is it just pure luck? Or have I been smart enough to ward off the anti-social? I really don't know! At the same time, I don't vouch for online relationships for everyone. It's very easy to get swept away by something that could pretty well be a figment of your imagination. People who are too 'real' find this whole internet-as-a-means-of-meeting-new-people to be a waste of time. And for people who are too unreal, it's plain dangerous!

Hmm...which implies that only if you are smart enough like me ( ;) )...that is, a healthy mix of fantasy n reality, you are safe! But that's too much to ask for in every person. So, here's a few pointers:

1. As colonial as it may sound, stick to people who type good english (or whichever language u chat in!...bad grammar is such a turn off!)... In terms of 'net friends' at least, this is a sure-shot way of weeding out people I know I can do without!

2. Steer clear of people who seem overly enthusiastic

(a combination of the above points make sure you are saved from the "lets do frandship" and "wanna hav fun" varieties)

3. There is no need to share personal info such as your name and whereabouts till you are sufficiently comfortable with a person. This includes phone numbers! :P Take it slow.

4. Do NOT encourage people who want to meet you even before they've had a chance to get to know you. The 'how will we get to know each other if we don't meet' argument is the lamest ever!

What else...what else....oh what the heck! There are no rules! Just use your head. And pray that you have my luck ;)