By now, many in Fremont have heard about the recent disappearance and now, as of Thursday, Aug. 7, safe recovery of 16-year-old Katie Hong. According to KRON4 and the Fremont Police Department, Hong had last been seen Friday, July 25, after leaving a note saying she planned to meet people she’d only interacted with through an online chat platform. She reportedly knew them only by their screen names and they declined to share their real identities.
Surveillance footage showed her heading toward Irvington Community Park, where police say she left her cellphone before going offline entirely. The disappearance launched a large-scale search effort involving Fremont PD, federal law enforcement, private investigators and hundreds of community members.
Hong was found safe on Thursday, Aug. 7. In a statement, police said she was “unharmed and safe” and would be reunited with her family. Her parents expressed deep gratitude to everyone who helped, noting in a GoFundMe update that any unused funds from the more than $70,000 raised will go toward nonprofits that search for missing children.
While the circumstances of her disappearance remain under investigation, Hong’s story underscores a growing reality: Many teens now form relationships online—sometimes with people they have never met in person—through platforms like Discord, gaming sites and social media. Meeting those connections in person carries serious safety risks.
With that in mind, here are 10 tips for teens and parents on safely meeting someone from the Internet:
- Verify their identity first
Never agree to meet someone until you know their real name, age and other verifiable details. Ask to video chat first, and confirm through mutual connections if possible. - Tell a trusted adult
Always inform a parent or guardian about who you’re meeting, where and when. Share all communication you’ve had with the person. - Meet in a public place
Choose a busy, well-lit location like a coffee shop, library or mall, never a private home, park or secluded spot. - Bring a friend or adult
Never go alone. Having someone with you adds a layer of security and accountability. - Keep your phone on you
Maintain access to your phone at all times. Avoid situations where you’re asked to leave it behind. - Arrange your own transportation
Don’t rely on the person you’re meeting for a ride. Have a way to leave quickly if needed. - Trust your gut
If something feels off, whether it’s their behavior online or in person, it’s okay to cancel or leave. - Limit personal information
Don’t share your address, school name, daily routines or family details with someone you don’t know well. - Set clear boundaries
Be firm about what you’re comfortable with, and don’t let anyone pressure you into breaking them. - Know how to get help fast
Keep emergency numbers handy and identify safe places nearby in case you need assistance.
Hong’s case ended with a safe return, but not all stories do. As online and offline worlds continue to blur, staying informed and talking openly about safety is one of the best protections parents and teens can have.
