The word netiquette is a combination of ’net’ (from internet) and ’etiquette’. It means respecting other users’ views and displaying common courtesy when posting your views to online discussion groups. It is utilized by users of young and old ages who communicate through emails, blogs, Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, or online shopping.
BASIC RULES:
- Remember the Human - Don't say something to someone online that you would not address to them to their face. Another thing to think about as well is that the things you write on the internet are written meaning they can be copied or saved to be used against you later.
- Same online behavior as real life behavior - it is often hard to realize the things that are done online when you can't physically see it happen are as serious as if you were to do the same thing in person. Breaking the law on the internet will have just as severe consequences as if you did the same thing in person.
- Know where you are in Cyberspace - things that are acceptable in one area may not as acceptable in another.
- Respect other's time - you may not always get a quick response. Keep in mind other people have things going on in their lives too and can't always answer you as fast as you would like.
- Make yourself look good online - all people have to judge you is the quality of your writing. Make sure you are using proper grammer and spelling. Also, make sure you don't use offensive language.
- Share knowledge - if you can help answer a persons question do so.
- Help keep flame wars under control - "flaming" is expressing a strong opinion without being tactful. It is fine to express an opinion without it taking away from the discussion at hand.
- Respect others privacy - don't read other people's email or private correspondence.
- Don't abuse your power - if you have control or access of another person's technology don't take advantage of it.
- Be forgiving of other people's mistakes - it happens no one is perfect.
http://www.albion.com/netiquette/corerules.html