For starters, it always helps to scroll through the chat room's "Frequently Asked Questions" section. That will help the novice avoid making some of the more common mistakes and malapropos. Other than maybe what state or region you live in, not much should be divulged in the way of personal data.
Such exchanges are best reserved for more private settings (which some chat rooms will provide).
Some people (especially those new to online dating) may think that it's impossible to develop true feelings for someone you've never met. But many people begin sharing things and forming a strong bond with each other just through text, and possibly phone conversations.