It's so easy to say mean things to others online. It's easy to hack them, or send them viruses too. And it's kind of fun to play pranks on others and fool your friends. And when someone makes you angry or does mean things to you first, it's only fair to do them back.

Right?

Wrong!

Even though the Internet doesn't feel real, and even though you can be a different person online than you are in RL, there are rules. And breaking them may get you into serious trouble, cost you your e-mail, IM or Internet account, or even result in a visit from the police. It's easy to do or say things online that you would never do or say in RL. And you may even think that people won't take you seriously, or know that you're only kidding. But in many cases that's not true.

There are ways you can avoid being a bully online or cyberstalker. But the most important tip we can give you is the use your head. Before you send anyone something, when it's only a prank or your just kidding around, make sure that they know it. You may want to run it by a cyberbuddy before you send it. Or include a disclaimer at the bottom of the message that you're just kidding around, or a JK after it. Or if you are angry or hurt,  Take 5! Put down the mouse and walk away from the computer, or put down your text-messaging device or cell phone. Take a walk, listen to your favorite music, dance, run, watch TV, play a video game.  Do whatever helps calm you down. Don't click before you calm down.

Thinkb4uclick!

Do you have suggestions for ways kids can avoid  being a victim of netbullying or from becoming a bully and harassing each other? We'd love to hear it. Send an e-mail to cyberbullying@wiredsafety.org , and we may even use your tip. Send us your first name, what country you live in and your age only. We may post it on our site. It's up to use to make a better, safer and more fun Internet. Wanna help?