Knowing who to trust online

Illustration of a girl sitting on a bed using a laptop. A dark, shadow‑like shape appears behind the screen. A cat sleeps on the bed beside them, and a dresser is visible in the room.

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.

Illustration of a unknown stranger seated at a desk using a laptop. Several envelopes float around the screen, some showing icons like a crown, cupcake, and lollipop, with arrows pointing toward and away from the person.

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.

Illustration of a mobile phone displaying chat messages. The messages read “What’s ur fav game?”, “Where are your parents?”, “R u alone?”, and “What school do you go to?”.

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.

Illustration of a boy sitting at a desk using a computer. Message icons, hearts, gift symbols, and emoji appear floating around the screen against a dark background.

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.

Illustration of a device screen showing a page titled “READ ALL ABOUT ME!”. The page includes a photo, drawings, and a list with headings such as full name, address, siblings, phone number, and favourite things.

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!

Illustration of a child and an adult sitting together on a couch. The adult holds a tablet, and the child points toward the screen. Cushions and a rug are visible in the room.

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.

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.

There's always somebody you can talk to!

If you have seen something scary or upsetting online and there's nobody you can talk to, you can tell a Kids Helpline counsellor -give us a call, or start a webchat.