RuralNomad

It was a while ago since I played story mode and had to learn the console all over again. I had been warned to stay off online but I have seen a number of vids of online and it was very interesting. In all the hours I have watched not one person was sniped. I saw that the online version appeared to be pretty interesting. Different land, different animals, and before I could explore, bam. I gather online is strictly pvp and no way to protect yourself from that? I did see one post about a white flag but that person was sniped too. I think it would be ridiculous to be carrying a white flag around all the time. Is there a way to be online and enjoy online with out being killed every 2 minutes? Or is this like GTA griefer heaven? Note, I have every major GTA version but will not go to 6 after the experience I have had with 5. Last question, can you make a private session like GTA5 and still get credit for quests?