# data[].attributes.body
The rules of etiquette are just as important in the digital world as they are in the real world—and poor netiquette (online etiquette or Internet etiquette) can stick around to haunt you for much longer. Follow these basic rules of netiquette to avoid damaging your online and offline relationships and protect your reputation.

# data[].attributes.body
Nothing is more irritating than trying to have a conversation with someone who is engrossed in their phone, tablet, or another electronic device. This is especially important if the other person is your date, partner, or child. Continue to make real people a priority while in public places such as restaurants, public transit, stores, elevators, and libraries. You can do this by not having phone conversations when in these shared spaces, as well as by silencing your audible notifications.

# data[].attributes.body
Name-calling, cursing, expressing deliberately offensive opinions—if you wouldn't do this to the face of anyone who might conceivably see what you write, don't write it. This goes for social media sites, forums, chat rooms, and email messages. Think it can't be traced back to you? it can. Keep in mind that it's not just what you say that may be considered disrespectful, but how you say it. Text in all caps is generally perceived as yelling, for instance. Don't forget to say please and thank you as appropriate.

# data[].attributes.headline
Share With DiscretionDon't sext naked pictures or post pictures of alcohol use, drug use, or other information about your private life online. Once these images and statements are uploaded to the Internet, they are there for the rest of the world to see, forever. Any time you are talking out loud, others can overhear you. This provides them access to your private information, so don't overshare.

# data[].attributes.subject
Share With DiscretionDon't sext naked pictures or post pictures of alcohol use, drug use, or other information about your private life online. Once these images and statements are uploaded to the Internet, they are there for the rest of the world to see, forever. Any time you are talking out loud, others can overhear you. This provides them access to your private information, so don't overshare.

# data[].attributes.body
It is equally important to be mindful of who you decide to include, as some people prefer to not be added to large group texts or social media groups. Good netiquette involves getting their permission first to ensure that they're okay with it.

# data[].attributes.body
If you don't want to stay in touch with someone long-term, good netiquette is to not add them in the first place.  The obvious exception to this netiquette rule is if you "friend" someone while you are getting along and then later have a disagreement. It is perfectly acceptable to unfriend someone if the relationship is beyond repair. Just don't torture them (or yourself) with on-again-off-again connecting.

# data[].attributes.body
If you aren't sure of the facts behind an online story or social media post, check with someone who does know or can find out. Another option is to do a search on Google or snopes.com to see if the post is true or if it is a scam.

# data[].attributes.body
Don't forward information sent to you without checking with the original sender first; doing this behind their back can create mistrust if they find out. This includes copying and pasting texts or sending screenshots. You might think that we are all friends online, but some people don't want their names or email addresses publicized to those they don't know.

# data[].attributes.body
By all means, ignore and delete spam, unsolicited messages, and crazy stuff. You don't owe anyone a response if they are sending you something you didn't ask for in advance.

# data[].attributes.body
The term "spam" applies to the receipt of any unwanted message. In the online world, spamming can refer to an unwanted email, text, or social media message. If you want to share information with your contacts, ask before sending it. So don't open an email or social media message from someone you don't know.

# data[].attributes.body
Don't leave inaccurate information online just because you can't be bothered to update your social media profile or, if you own a business, your company's website.

# data[].attributes.body
Follow these 10 netiquette "rules" to stay respectful to others. Using Internet etiquette can also protect your reputation, which is helpful on both personal and professional levels.