[1]The internet is a great way to connect with your friends and learn new things. But it’s also important to stay safe.
There are a few ways you can help make sure you’re not in danger when you use the internet.
Childline’s Top 5 tips for keeping safe online:
- Be careful what you share
Once something is online, it’s out of your control. If you don’t want your parents or teachers to see it, don’t post it. - Don’t meet people you don’t know in person
Even if you get on with them online, you never know who they really are - Use a complex password
It should be hard for other people to guess your password and it’s a good idea to change it regularly. - Check your privacy settings
Check who can see what you post and whether your accounts are public or private. - Talk about it
If you see something online that makes you upset or uncomfortable, talk to an adult you trust [2].
Other helpful resources:
- Child Exploitation and Online Protection Centre [3] – Child Exploitation and Online Protection (CEOP) Centre delivers a multi-agency service dedicated to tackling the exploitation of children
- Childnet [4] – Childnet International’s mission is to work in partnership with others around the world to help make the Internet a great and safe place for children.
- CEOP thinkuknow [5] – Find the latest information on the sites you like to visit, mobiles and new technology. Find out what’s good, what’s not and what you can do about it.
- Zipit App [6] – Zipit is a free app for you which is designed to provide you with witty images to send in response to a request for explicit images, and advice on how to stay safe – for Android, Apple and BlackBerry smartphones (and iPod touch).
- NSPCC Online Safety [7] – The NSPCC (National Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Children) provides E-Safety advice and support in a digital world.