When we were young, our parents told us not to talk to strangers. In the days of the internet we do this all the time under the assumption that these strangers don't know who or where we are and can't (or wouldn't want to) hurt us. It is far easier than we'd like to admit for them to get our personal information, but with a little caution and prudence you can stay safe.

Beyond your social security number and bank account number, the two pieces of information you should be the most reluctant to give out is your name and address. First names are usually not such a big deal; after all, there are over four million Johns in the US (that's over 3% of the male population). Last names are a different story; it is easy for someone to find out where you live and other details of your life just from your full name. The same goes for your address.

Your age is kind of a grey area. Definitely don't give out your birthdate, as that information makes it easier for others to steal your identity. Some people try to prey on younger users, so if you are under 16 or so it may be wise to not give out your age.

While talking to strangers on the internet, the best course of action is to not give out any information you wouldn't want a psycho-stalker to know. No matter how sweet and innocent lacrosseboy13 may seem, you can never tell if he's really a 55-year-old construction worker.