Chat rooms are Internet “zones” that allow users to have real-time, two-way conversations via text messages. Chat rooms can accommodate large numbers of people who can read and reply to messages.
Some chat rooms are particularly attractive to young internet users. Millions of young people from different cultures exchange ideas on almost all topics. A number of schools are currently using this global resource. For example, under the guidance of a teacher, US students can discuss social issues with colleagues in Spain, the UK, or elsewhere. Students can also discuss classroom projects with engineers, chemists, or other qualified professionals.
However, many people who access chat rooms are not there to discuss academic topics. What risks do I have to consider if I have access to the Internet?
A hunting ground for sex offenders
“I was chatting with some people and the guy asked me if I knew I was 14 years old. He wanted to have sex with them. He paid me for sex. I said I was willing to pay,” Ome tv said. As above. “”
Abigail’s experience is not unique. The problem of online predators is so widespread that some governments have issued policies to protect young people. For example, a Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) publication immediately warns anyone who posts sexually explicit comments. He also warns people who “slowly pursue goals with attention, kindness, kindness, even gifts.”
FBI guidelines describe the specific methods used by some of these predators. “Gradually suppress by gradually incorporating sexual context and content into the conversation.”
Not only altered adults are at risk. Also, be aware of young people who are ignorant of or who make fun of Bible morals. Consider the experience of a young man named Cody. He was chatting with other teenagers online when the girl invited him to a private chat. Then he asked her a question that suggested something sexual. Cody had enough self-control to stop speaking immediately.
It can be very difficult to respond like Cody due to your natural interest in sex. Peter quoted above said: But as time went on I kept talking about sexual issues. Then I got sick. But “is it really harmful to talk about sex online if you hide who you are in chat?”
Online discussions can be dangerous
Little boy talking to girl online
Omegle TV Chat rooms are a relatively new phenomenon, but it is as old as history that people lie and cheat. The Bible tells us that the false Satan the Devil originally pioneered the tactics used by chat visitors. He hid his identity before telling his first lie. (Genesis 3:1-5; Revelation 12:9, 10). By following the example of King David, we will not be deceived by liars. “I have never sat down with the unrighteous, nor will I come with him who hides himself” (Psalm 26:4).
As mentioned earlier, some chat rooms can be useful. However, young people who want to please Jehovah should be very careful when using this modern method of communication. If you need access, for example a school project, ask a parent or other adult to join the session. In a future article, we will discuss two additional reasons to be careful when logging into chat rooms. It also describes how to handle certain problems that may arise even with careful use.
- Some anonymous chat sites are safer as they are better moderated and have in-built reporting system.
- Useful Q & A for teens provides solid Bible-based advice on premarital sex, masturbation, and more.
- Some adult chats theoretically restrict access to certain ages. This is because the topics that are frequently discussed and the photos that are shared are pornography. However, research shows that teens under the age of nine trick their age into entering adult chat rooms.
- I don’t know who I’m chatting with, so it’s possible that I’m actually the same sex but pretending to be the opposite sex.
- Parental guides to Internet security recommend that users never reveal their name, address, or phone number to strangers they meet in chat.
