Stay Safe Online

Most of us are ‘connected’ to the internet via laptops, mobile phones, tablets or personal computers. Going onto the internet has the potential for entertainment, social interaction, learning and keeping in touch BUT being online also puts you at risk of illegal activity or abuse - be it bullying, fraud or something more serious. It's so important to stay safe online. Unlike seeing someone face to face, on the net, people aren't always what they first seem.

In the same way you learn about safety when you leave the house, it is important to learn how to stay safe online. These are skills that will stay with you for life.

Top 10 Internet Safety Tips

1. Don’t publicly post any personal information online such as phone numbers, email addresses, home addresses, etc.
2. Think before posting photos or videos because once it’s uploaded, anyone can use it!
3. Keep your privacy settings as high as possible.
4. Never give out passwords.
5. Don’t befriend strangers.
6. Never arrange to meet someone you’ve met online.
7. Remember that people can lie about their identity such as their name, age and where they live!
8. Respect other people’s views and opinions even if you don’t agree.
9. Be careful about what you post as it may unintentionally hurt someone’s feelings.
10. If something online makes you uncomfortable or upset, leave the website, close the computer and tell an adult you trust.

Follow the S.M.A.R.T. Rules

SAFE - Keep your information private.

MEET - Never arrange to meet strangers.

ACCEPTING - Accepting emails can be dangerous

RELIABLE - Be careful about trusting what you read

TELL - If you are worried about anything online, tell a trusted adult.

For parents

What apps are your kids using and what do they do? It's incredibly important to be involved in your child's online world. Talk to them about what they're doing online and ask questions about who they connect with.

With so many apps available for children, it's hard to keep on top of it all but we found this great guide from the NSPCC on the most popular applications used by children in the UK today. We hope you find it helpful.