Warning Signs
Learn to notice when something online doesn't feel right
Too much too fast
Someone you just met online calls you their 'best friend ever,' 'really special,' or 'not like other kids' — all very quickly. Real friendships grow slowly.
🚩 Warning sign: Unusual flattery very early on
✅ What to do: Notice the feeling. Tell a trusted adult about the person and what they said.
"Keep this between us"
Someone asks you not to tell your parents or teacher about your conversations or messages. People who want to help you never need to hide from your parents.
🚩 Warning sign: Being asked to keep the friendship secret
✅ What to do: This is your signal to tell a trusted adult right away. You are not in trouble — they are.
Pressure and urgency
Someone says you must do something RIGHT NOW, that there's no time to think, or that bad things will happen if you don't act immediately. This is a way to stop you from thinking clearly or asking a grown-up.
🚩 Warning sign: Feeling rushed or pressured to decide quickly
✅ What to do: Stop. Slow down. Ask a trusted adult before doing anything. Real friends give you time to think.