Knowing who to trust online
![Girl child looking upset at a computer Girl child looking upset at a computer](https://kidshelpline.com.au/sites/default/files/bdl_image/knowing%20who%20to%20trust%20online_01.png)
Sadly not everyone online is your friend
Some people might start off friendly, but then end up pressuring you or hurting you.
Things might start out fun, but could become scary or upsetting.
![Shadowy stranger on computer who could be online predator Shadowy stranger on computer who could be online predator](https://kidshelpline.com.au/sites/default/files/bdl_image/knowing%20who%20to%20trust%20online-02.png)
You don’t know who they really are
They might seem friendly and have a nice profile, but remember that if you don't know them in real life then they are a stranger.
![ipad conversation with online predator ipad conversation with online predator](https://kidshelpline.com.au/sites/default/files/bdl_image/knowing%20who%20to%20trust%20online-03.png)
Someone online might ask you lots of questions...
They may ask for photos, a phone number, your address, or what suburb you live in.
You don't have to answer – just leave the game or ignore them and tell a trusted adult about it.
![Young boy at computer looking worried, surround ed by gifts and game credits Young boy at computer looking worried, surround ed by gifts and game credits](https://kidshelpline.com.au/sites/default/files/bdl_image/knowing%20who%20to%20trust%20online-04.png)
Don't accept free gifts, favours, or game credits
They might want something from you in return. They might make you feel special now, but later pressure you into doing something you don't want to do. Try saying 'no thanks' and leave the conversation.
![iPad screen showing online profile with too much information on it iPad screen showing online profile with too much information on it](https://kidshelpline.com.au/sites/default/files/bdl_image/knowing%20who%20to%20trust%20online-05.png)
It can be easy to over-share online
You might put a lot of personal info online. Sometimes people ask all the right questions and before you know it... you've shared too much!
![Young girl upset showing iPad to mum on couch Young girl upset showing iPad to mum on couch](https://kidshelpline.com.au/sites/default/files/bdl_image/Knowing%20who%20to%20trust%20online-06.png)
It's ok to make mistakes
Just like learning something new at school, learning how to be safe online takes practice.
We all make mistakes at first – just be sure to get help if you feel worried or upset about anything online.
![Girl talking to mum on couch Girl talking to mum on couch](https://kidshelpline.com.au/sites/default/files/bdl_image/knowing%20who%20to%20trust%20online-07.png)
Talk to a parent, teacher, or Kids Helpline counsellor
Even if the other person doesn't want you to tell anyone, you're allowed to talk about it with an adult you trust.
It's important to tell an adult – then together you can figure out what to do next.