Can we have a discussion about online safety?

[MmeLindor]

Its not really a thread about a thread about a thread, and please don't turn it into a bunfight but I think it has to be said.

1. You don't know who the person on the other side of the screen is. I might be a naice middle-aged mum from Scotland. I might be a hairy-handed trucker from Milnathorpe. You don't know for sure.

1. No one on here can 100% vouch for another poster. We can say 'I've met that person in RL and she seemed fine/genuine/luffly' and we can say 'I've conversed for several years with this person online and as far as I know she is a real person'. We cannot say for sure.

1. MNHQ cannot vouch for a poster. They are not the FBI, they have no special powers to snoop around (even if they had the time to do this).

1. For this reason, do not EVER arrange to meet a poster from MN at their home, your home or in a secluded location. It should go without saying.

These are basic internet security tips. The kind that we give to our kids. I would really like if MNHQ would comment/add their own tips.

[MmeLindor]

Gosh
yes, I agree.

Would be good tie in wiht Internet Safety Day, Hula.

[LRDtheFeministDragon]

There was a warning going around FB a while ago saying don't automatically share those 'my darling wife is lost' posts as it could be someone non-legit.

It's the same here.

[magimedi]

Very good idea and well overdue.

Some people are far too trusting (or gullible?).

[RatherBeOnThePiste]

I've met folk at their homes and I've had one come to my home when handing over a Woolly Hug.

Sort of feels different, guess it's not, I do hear what you are saying.

[Hulababy]

I have met a few MNetters over the years Initial meeting though was always in a public place and normally with several people.

I am RL friends with some of those now, and one in particular who we see as a fmily very often have holidayed with, etc. So I could vouch for them in the same way I could vouch for any other RL friend.

[MmeLindor]

Pistey
I have been at people's homes and had them here, but not on first meeting and not when there is a potential violent ex hanging around.

[MmeLindor]

We could just go with this

"TheDoctrineOfSnatch Thu 30-Jan-14 19:50:48
Site policy on safety: scottishmummy's "trust nae fucker""

[DuckandCat]

Yes I agree.

I've also seen on threads comments such as 'I can come and sit with the kids, I'm CRB checked'.

Who would let some random off the Internet into their home to look after their children. I would also be VERY wary of someone who thought this is an appropriate thing to offer.

I think the odd reminder is good for everyone.

[AmyMumsnet]

Hi everyone, we're aware this is a zombie thread which has been reactivated but if there is still a demand for an online safety webchat we'd be happy to consider it.

[BoreOfWhabylon]

I think that would be an excellent idea Amy.

[PetiteRaleuse]

Excellent idea

[PetiteRaleuse]

Looks like I already said that upthread.