Out of Line Online

Sites like Facebook and Myspace are quickly taking over the world as far as social networking goes and that in large part includes the dating and relationship realm.

• Harassment on "walls" or in emails and messages as well as comments on photos/videos
  
• spreading of rumors is also something that can be done on a wall or as the result of something seen on a wall posting. Emails, messages, and comments apply here as well.
  
• sharing of private information, I know I'm being redundant but all of the above works here as well
• posting of private or "embarassing" photos is probably one of the worst for many people. Luckily for most cases you can at least "un-tag" yourself in photos and they can't be accessed from your account, but what about everyone else's?
  
• videos...I don't even want to go there.

These are just a few ways that online social networking has gotten out of line and continues to do so. Granted all of these sites claim that they monitor and most even go as far as to add little buttons that say, "Report this picture," etc. but really, who does that? And when and if someone does report what really happens to the person or thing these reported? They close their account? Well, sad day for them and five minutes later they can just open another under another free email URL and change some of their personal information and vuola! The crazy is back in business.

Here are some ideas from thesafespace.org on how to protect yourself, you know just some precautions, mostly common sense stuff:

Don't:

• Say or do anything online you wouldn’t in person. It may seem easier when you are not face to face, but this can get you into trouble.
• Post things you might not want people you don't know seeing and knowing. While phone numbers and addresses obviously let people contact you directly, things like school and team names, landmarks and photos may also make it easier for people to find out where you live, hang out or go to school.
• Respond to harassing, abusive or inappropriate comments. It won’t make the person stop and it might get you in trouble or put you in danger.
• Use any form of technology to contact your abuser if you are in or coming out of a dangerous relationship. It can be dangerous and may be used against you in the future.
• Give your passwords to anyone (except your parent or guardian).
• Use the same password for all your accounts.

Do:

• Use the privacy preferences to keep your page as private as you can.
• Remember, it’s not just about you. If you post information or photos about your friends or family, you may also be putting them at risk.
• Save or keep a record of all harassing or abusive messages, posts, and comments, in case you decide to tell the police or get a protective order.
• Choose passwords that are hard to guess and change all passwords regularly.
• Change your usernames and email addresses if the abuse and harassment will not stop. It may seem extreme but it may be your best option.
• Report inappropriate behavior to the site administrators.
• Trust your instincts! If you think something is wrong or are feeling threatened, tell someone who can help you.

If you are being abused or harassed, whether it’s over the phone, online or in person, Break the Cycle can help you learn about your options and legal rights.