On Facebook, I got friend requested by this boy I don't know. I checked out his profile. He was 18 and lived in a nearby town.
I denied his request, but he kept sending me messages. I responded once and now he knows my e-mail. What should I do?
Hey girl, it’s 100% not cool when a big, bad wolf tries to bother a poor li’l Red Riding Hood. But don't worry about it. I’ve got a few tips to get this creeper out of your life for good.
Facebook de-friend
Luckily, there’s a way to block and even report profiles on Facebook. Blocking profiles means people you don’t want seeing your info can’t see it period. Your page doesn’t show when they type your name, and they can’t contact you. On Facebook, to set this, go to the settings tab on the top bar and scroll down to Privacy Settings. There’s a block list and getting this dude off your profile is as easy as typing his name and then he’s gone for good.
X out all the e-mails
Depending on your e-mail provider, you can also filter his e-mail messages (have them sent directly to trash) or mark his address as spam. Remember, girl, NEVER EVER respond to this shady guy again. That’s just an invitation for further contact you don’t want. What he’s doing—harassing a minor— is actually illegal in some states. You have every right to report this guy’s profile on Facebook and to tell your folks or a greater authority if ya feel threatened.
Lesson learned
In the future, remember it’s never, ever all right to talk to strangers. Facebook and MySpace are great sites because they keep people connected. That said, they’re also treasure mines for personal info you may not mean to put out there. Be sure to change your privacy settings so only friends can see your contact info (it’s under the same Privacy Setting tab) and block strange creepers off the bat the next time they try to friend request you. As you know, don’t give out your e-mail, street address out or other identifying info out to peeps. And be careful choosing what personal info you put out on the web. It’s better safe than sorry, chica, and I’m sorry you had to learn that the hard way.
All in all, when it comes to staying connected with people, it’s as easy as an IM, Facebook message, or a tweet. But there’s a line to be drawn about what info’s harmless and harmful. When it comes to being a social network queen, every royal should know the importance of privacy settings. They keep social networking (and you!) safe and still in the loop. And what that means for you, Miss. Hood? A brighter, creeper-free future!
And if this creeper still tries to contact you? Don't stay silent, don't be embarrassed and SPEAK UP. None of this is your fault and you need to stop it before it becomes an even bigger problemo.
Infinite xoxo’s,
Alyssa B.
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BY CAITLIN R. ON 11/20/2009 7:00:00 AM 109 COMMENTS