Minors 
T he internet is like a giant playground. You can chat, game, post selfies, and learn cool stuff. But just like in real life, there are rules you should follow to stay respectful and safe. Let’s call it cyber manners, and here’s a quick guide
for you to grasp it!
1. Think Before You Type
Words can hurt, especially online. Never post anything mean, insulting, or threatening. Just because you are behind a screen or you can’t see the person’s face doesn’t mean it won’t affect them.
Tip: If you wouldn’t say it in front of your teacher or your parents, don’t type it online.
2. Don’t Share Everything
Oversharing is risky. Avoid posting your phone number, school name, home address, or daily schedule. Scammers and creeps are always watching. Set your social media profiles to private. Think twice before sharing selfies in school uniform or tagging your location. There is no point in giving away your personal details to strangers online!
Tip: Review privacy settings on apps like Instagram, Snapchat, and YouTube. Make sure you are safe, your details secure, so you can enjoy connecting with others without being harassed by random strangers online.
3. Use Real Words, Not Rage
Getting angry in a WhatsApp group? Don’t shoot off a message that might come across as offensive, rude, or downright bullying. Walk away, cool down, and reply politely. You don’t want one angry text to bite you in near future where everyone from your future college counsellors, to employers, to recruiters, might be privy to your digital footprint.
Tip: Monitor how you communicate. Keep the longevity of your digital footprint in mind.
4. No Forwarding Without Checking
India has a major fake news problem. Don’t blindly forward messages. Always double check info before sharing it with others. Jumping on a trend might be tempting, but it is always better to pause and think – if it sounds too clickbaity, maybe giving it a skip is better.
Tip: Always verify before you amplify.
5. Respect Boundaries and Other People’s Time
Don’t ping your friends, classmates or teachers late at night. Don’t video call someone without asking them first. Always make sure that the other person is interested in a chat as much as you are.
Tip: Just because you’re online doesn’t mean others are free to chat. Also, sometimes being present in real life moments can be way more meaningful and fun.
6. Don’t Feed the Trolls
Online trolls love drama. If someone is harassing you, block and report them. Don’t fight back, it only adds fuel.
Tip: Take screenshots. Tell a trusted adult if you feel uncomfortable. Don’t put yourself in a situation where you don’t feel good.
7. Stay Safe in Online Games
Games are fun, but remember strangers in games are still strangers.
Tip: Don’t share your phone number or photos in game chats. They might be used by strangers in an unsolicited manner that might make you uncomfortable later.
8. Be Inclusive
Respect people of all genders, religions, and regions. Online or offline, everyone deserves kindness.
Tip: Avoid using slurs or jokes that could hurt someone’s identity. Stand up if you see others being bullied online. Trolling is easy, but cheering others on takes a huge heart. Remember it costs nothing to be kind.
9. Know When to Log Off
Your mental health matters. If the internet feels overwhelming, take a break. Go outside. Talk to a real person.
Tip: The internet is powerful—but it should never control you.
Cyber manners are not just about being “nice.” They protect you, your friends, and your future. In today’s digital India, being respectful and safe online is just as important as scoring well in your exams.
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