Entering the internet, every person becomes part of a virtual society. This applies to all platforms—forums, social networks, chats, and interest groups. In these spaces, people can create the image of themselves that they want to present to others.
Cybersecurity
When meeting someone online, it is important to maintain a reasonable level of caution. The truth is, we never really know who is on the other side of the screen.
Photos on the internet
In the era of AI-generated images, it has become increasingly difficult to distinguish real photos from artificial ones. Even before this, many people edited their pictures using filters and masks in various apps and programs.
When posting personal photos online, they should not strongly reflect your social status. It is best to avoid sharing images filled with luxury brands, frequent travels, or anything that draws attention to financial wealth.
What to talk about?
Being cautious never hurts. It is not advisable to share too much personal information too quickly, disclose your location, or provide contact details such as your home address or full name.
At first, it is enough to communicate on the platform where you met.
Suspicious offers
Be careful if a new acquaintance online offers quick and questionable ways to make money. Avoid agreeing to visit their home.
For a first meeting, choose a neutral and public place.
Safety also means refusing to send additional photos or videos to a stranger, especially intimate ones. Many cases of blackmail involving such files have been reported on the internet.
Cyber ethics in online dating and communication
Virtual interactions have their own cyber ethics—rules and norms for proper online communication. When getting to know someone, pay attention to how they behave.
Just like in real life, notice whether they are polite, respectful, and avoid offensive or disturbing topics.
Focus on a person who is courteous and does not pressure you into doing or saying things against your will.
What should a conversation be like?
A conversation should be clear, pleasant, and engaging for both sides. If someone’s words, actions, or lifestyle raise doubts or make you feel uncomfortable, it is best to end the communication.
Be cautious with people who immediately invite themselves over or try to gather excessive details about your life, family, financial situation, education, or job.
If they ask about your place of residence, it is enough to mention your district or the nearest subway station.
Respectful communication
Cyber ethics promotes respectful and equal communication in the virtual space.
For example, on a forum or on wedaf.com, you can connect with different people and find friends.
When meeting someone new, it is important to be polite while also not allowing rude behavior towards yourself. If necessary, make a polite remark and see if the person listens. If they continue to be disrespectful, it is best to end the conversation.
The internet is becoming increasingly populated by younger users, which raises concerns for parents. A child can now end up in a bad company not just on the streets but also from the comfort of their home.
Teenagers and young adults may also get involved in groups that promote harmful lifestyles.
Trust your instincts
Over time, when communicating online, people naturally begin to assess how much they trust a particular person.
Some become close friends, while others remain occasional chat partners.
Atmosphere
Specific cyber ethics rules may vary across different virtual communities, groups, social networks, or forums.
However, regardless of the platform, it is always important to treat others with kindness.
Every community develops its own atmosphere. As people interact, they not only support common topics but also better understand each individual’s personality. This fosters a friendly environment where members stand up for each other if someone new behaves negatively.
One-on-one conversations
In private conversations, it is a good idea to ask the other person about themselves—their hobbies, travels, interests, thoughts, and feelings. This helps form a first impression.
Often, within the first few sentences, you can sense whether the conversation feels comfortable. Some people fail to understand jokes or make offensive ones. Others communicate in a controlling manner, ignoring what their conversation partner says.
That is why it is important to pay attention to both internal feelings and external cues from the beginning.
Respectful communication, as a foundation of cyber ethics, opens doors to meaningful and engaging conversations, helping to build friendships and even romantic relationships that can last for many years.
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