The web is a great source of information and a way to stay in touch with friends.
By following some simple steps you can ensure you stay safe online.
- Never give out personal details to online friends that you do not know offline.
- Personal information includes your email address, mobile number, school name, sports club, arrangements for meeting up with friends and pictures or videos of yourself, your family or friends.
- Think very carefully about the information and pictures that you post on your profile. Once published online, anyone can change or share this information.
- It can be easy to forget that the internet is not a private space. As a result sometimes young people engage in risky behaviour online. Ask yourself "Would I be happy for my parent to see it?"
- Don't open files from people you don't know. You don't know what they may contain - it could be a virus, inappropriate image or film. If you do receive an file from someone unknown, tell a parent or teacher straightaway.
- Sometimes people lie online so it's better to keep online mates online. Never meet up with strangers without an adult you trust going with you.
Parents may be interested in the following websites for further guidance.
