Online Friendship Safety for Teens (13+)
Making friends online can be a great way to connect with people who share your interests. Online friendship safety for teens starts with knowing how to protect your privacy, set boundaries, and stay in control. This guide covers practical tips for both teens and parents to keep the experience positive and safe.
Safety rules that matter most
These rules are the foundation of staying safe while meeting new people online.
- check_circleKeep your full name, address, and school name private
- check_circleDon't share your phone number or other social accounts right away
- check_circleNever share passwords or login information with anyone
- check_circleBe thoughtful about what photos you share—avoid images that reveal your location
- check_circleTrust your instincts: if something feels off, it probably is
- check_circleTake conversations slow; there's no rush to share personal details
- check_circleTreat others the way you want to be treated—respectful interactions matter
- check_circleUse the app's safety features like blocking and reporting when needed
- check_circleRemember that you can stop replying or leave a conversation at any time
- check_circleTalk to a trusted adult if anything makes you uncomfortable
What to share (and what not to share)
Being thoughtful about what you share online helps protect both your privacy and your safety.
thumb_upOkay to share
- checkYour first name or a nickname
- checkGeneral interests and hobbies
- checkFavorite music, movies, games, or books
- checkOpinions on non-sensitive topics
- checkWhat you're looking forward to (in general terms)
thumb_downKeep private
- closeYour full legal name
- closeHome address or neighborhood details
- closeSchool name, mascot, or specific workplace
- closePhone number or personal email
- closeOther social media accounts (until you've built trust)
- closePasswords or account information
- closePhotos with location details, uniforms, or identifying landmarks
- closeFinancial information of any kind
How to spot uncomfortable situations early
Not everyone online has good intentions. Learning to recognize warning signs early can help you stay safe.
- priority_highSomeone asks you to keep your conversations secret from parents or friends
- priority_highThey pressure you to share photos, personal info, or move off-app quickly
- priority_highTheir story or details keep changing or don't add up
- priority_highThey try to make you feel guilty for not responding or sharing more
- priority_highThey get upset when you set boundaries or say no
- priority_highConversations feel one-sided, intense, or move too fast
- priority_highThey make promises that seem too good to be true
- priority_highThey ask about your location, schedule, or when you're alone
These signs don't always mean someone is dangerous, but they're worth paying attention to. Trust your gut.
What to do if something feels off
If a conversation or person makes you uncomfortable, here's what to do.
Pause and take a breath
You don't have to respond right away. It's okay to step back and think.
Stop replying
You don't owe anyone an explanation. If you're uncomfortable, you can simply stop responding.
Use block and report
If someone breaks rules or makes you uncomfortable, use the app's block and report features to protect yourself and others.
Talk to a trusted adult
If you're under 18 and something feels wrong, talk to a parent, guardian, or another adult you trust. They can help you figure out what to do.
Don't blame yourself
If someone behaves badly, that's on them—not you. You did nothing wrong by trying to make friends.
How parents can support teens (without spying)
Parents want to keep their teens safe, and teens want privacy. Here's how to find a healthy balance.
- favoriteHave open, judgment-free conversations about online experiences
- favoriteAsk about their friends and interests rather than interrogating
- favoriteSet clear expectations together about what's okay and what's not
- favoriteBe someone they feel comfortable coming to when something goes wrong
- favoriteRespect their privacy while staying available and engaged
- favoriteLearn about the apps they use so you can understand their world
- favoriteFocus on teaching skills like critical thinking and boundary-setting
For more guidance, read our Parent Guide.
Frequently asked questions
Learn more about staying safe
Explore our safety resources for teens and parents.