The Internet has opened up a whole new online world for us to meet, chat and go where we’ve never been before. But just as in face-to-face communication, there are some basic rules of behavior that should be followed when online.
    The basic rule is simple: treat others in the same way you would want to be treated. Imagine how you’d feel if you were in others’ shoes.
    If someone in the chat room is rude to you, your instinct(本能反应) is to fire back （反击）in the same manner. But try not to do so. You should either ignore(不理睬) the person, or use your chat software（软件） to block(阻止) his messages.
   Everyone was new to the network once.（没有人刚上网就很熟练） Offer your advice when asked by newcomers, as they may not be sure what to do or how to communicate. When someone makes a mistake, whether it’s a stupid（愚蠢的） question or an unnecessarily long answer, be kind about it. If it’s a small mistake, you may not need to say anything. Even if you feel bad about it, think twice （三思）before saying anything.
    If you do decide to tell someone about a mistake, point it out politely. At the same time, if you find you are wrong, be sure to correct yourself and apologize （道歉）to those who you have offended(冒犯).
    It is not polite to ask others personal questions such as their age, sex and marital status（婚姻状况）. Unless you know the person very well, and you are both comfortable with sharing personal information, don’t ask such questions.