Fake Online Friends
When chatbots lie
AI chatbots can be programmed to pretend they're real people. They might claim to be a kid your age and want to be your friend. In reality, they're collecting information about you.
How to recognize manipulation
Watch for these warning signs: The conversation gets personal very quickly. The chat partner keeps steering toward your data. They want to know where you live, which school you attend, or when you're alone. Real friends don't push like that.
How to protect yourself
Never share personal data in chats — no matter how nice the other person seems. Never meet someone you only know online without your parents present. Block and report suspicious contacts.
Detective Tip: There are over 300,000 chatbots on popular platforms alone. Most are harmless, but some are specifically built to question children.
Mini-Check (1/2)
A new chat friend insists on meeting you, but says you shouldn't tell anyone. What do you do?