Children's Online Safety

The internet is a fantastic way to learn about new things and to stay in touch with your friends. But it is really important to stay safe while spending time online and on your favourite websites. Below are several ways that our younger members can make sure that they stay safe while using the internet:

• Never post your personal information online these include details such as your name, address, age, mobile number or email address
• Think carefully before uploading photos/videos of yourself on a website. Remember that once you have posted a photo of yourself online people can see it.
• When you choose a profile photo or avatar on any social networking sites never use anything that may identify you or show someone where you may live.
• Never reveal your location to other website users.
• Never give out your password to anyone and make sure passwords used on sites you use are strong passwords.
• Don’t befriend people you don’t know online. Never share personal information like your address and phone number with people you don't know.
• Never agree to meet up with someone you have met online. Please speak to your parent or guardian about people suggesting you do
• Remember that not everyone you meet online is not who they say they are.
• Think carefully about what you 'say' before you post something online. Never upload or share anything that you wouldn't want your parents or guardian seeing you have posted. Remember that when you post something online it is no longer private to yourself and other people can see it.
• If you see something online that makes you feel, worried, unsafe or uncomfortable; leave the website and tell your parent or guardian immediately.

This information has been complied using a variety of sources:
https://www.childline.org.uk/info-advice/bullying-abuse-safety/online-mobile-safety/staying-safe-online/
http://www.safetynetkids.org.uk/personal-safety/staying-safe-online/
https://www.ceop.police.uk/safety-centre/