What do I do if someone wants to be my friend online, and I don’t know who the person is in life?
Thank you <3
Ignore him/her.
Delete everything s/he sends you.
If someone wants to be your friend online and you don't know who they are in real life, it's important to exercise caution due to the potential risks associated with online interactions. Here are a few steps you can take to ensure your safety:
1. Evaluate their online presence: Check their profile information and look for any red flags such as incomplete or meaningless details, limited friends or followers, or contradictory information. This can help you assess their credibility.
2. Conduct a reverse image search: If the person has a profile picture, you can use a search engine's reverse image search feature to see if the photo appears elsewhere online. This can help determine if the person is using a fake profile picture.
3. Don't overshare personal information: Avoid sharing sensitive information such as your full name, address, phone number, or financial details with someone you don't know in real life. Be cautious about what you post publicly, as it can be used to exploit you.
4. Communicate in public platforms: If you decide to engage with the person, it's safer to communicate on public platforms rather than private messaging apps. Public platforms often have moderation and reporting features that can intervene if someone is behaving inappropriately.
5. Trust your instincts: Pay attention to your gut feelings. If something feels off or suspicious, it's best to maintain a distance or disconnect entirely from the person.
6. Inform someone you trust: Share your concerns with a trusted friend or family member. They can provide an external perspective and support you in navigating the situation.
Remember, your safety is paramount. If you have any doubts or suspicions about someone online, it's always better to err on the side of caution.