About Chatmag Sections Advertising Information Contents Topic Index Guide IRC Introduction Introduction What is IRC? IRC Software Installing IRC Software IRC Tutorial mIRC Basics Article Connecting to an IRC Network Making Smileys :) Etiquette Internet Based Web Based Networks Internet Safety Safety Kids Safety' Handling Abusers Meeting in Person Relocating "Posers" Safety Articles Internet Scams AskMSN Online and Real Life Relationships by Caryl Safety Software Black Ice Defender News Find out the latest in chat related issues. Information for Operators and Internet Service Providers. Add Your Listing to Chatmag	We've covered meeting a person online in a social setting, now we'll cover business meetings.  In light of the tragedy regarding Bobbie Jo Stinnett, we felt some new guidelines are in order. To review our "Meeting in Person" tips, Click Here. Bobbie Jo raised and sold rat terrier dogs via her web site, and had people contact her at her home. Tip 1.  Get a cell phone.  Do not use your home telephone to conduct business. Cell phones are a reasonably priced alternative, and are not traceable to an address. Tip 2.  Get a Post Office Box.  Do not use your home address on your web site, or give it to anyone. A Post Office Box is a safe method of sending and receiving mail. Tip 3. Do not go alone to a meeting.  If your business is similar to Bobbie Jo's, where presentation of a product is necessary, make that meeting in a public place, and take a friend. Your 8 year old son may be a friend, but take an adult. Tip 4. It may be possible to obtain owners information corresponding to a license plate.  Try and park where the other party does not see your vehicle, if at all possible. Yet your vehicle should be nearby, you wouldn't want to walk any distance. Tip 5.  Your IP number cannot be used to trace you to your home.  When you visit a web site, send an email, post a message on a discussion forum, or chat via IRC, your IP number is logged.  Without an IP number, you will not be able to connect to the Internet. Anyone can trace that number to your Internet Service Provider, and in many cases, to the general area of your home town, but not to your home.  When a person is traced via IP, the ISP will give out user information to a recognized law enforcement agency, after a subpoena is issued requesting that information. ISP's do not share your information with anyone outside of law enforcement. This does not include the possibility of an ISP selling email lists, however, your account information is secure. For a more detailed explanation of IP numbers, click here. To see your IP number, click here. Tip 6.  Your safety depends on your actions.  Do not give out information such as home telephone number, address, or other information that would lead a person to your home. Even casually mentioning the church you attend is a clue that someone may use to trace you. Just remember, at anytime you feel uncomfortable meeting in person, get out!  Never take a chance on your safety!
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