Online Safety

Online Safety is being aware of the nature of the possible threats that you could encounter whilst engaging in activity through the Internet.

 

Children have more information at their fingertips than any generation before. Tablets, laptops, and smartphones are common at school and at home, including for virtual learning,  and the devices aren’t going away anytime soon, which is why professionals and families should have conversations about internet safety.

The internet has information that can enrich our lives. It also can harm us. 

Internet safety is the act of staying safer online. This includes being aware of the risks associated with your online activity and employing a few strategies to prevent or avoid these risks. Internet safety is also sometimes referred to as online safety, cyber safety, or e-safety.

Playing it safe online can help prevent children from being exposed to unwanted information, materials, or risks on the internet that might harm their devices, personal information and harm them. It's smart to teach children computer safety so that they don't fall victim to some common dangers of the internet.

It involves lots of local and national organisations coming together to raise awareness of correct internet practices. They look at lots of topics including consent, ownership and data privacy, and it runs with the slogan, ‘Together for a better internet’. They also raise issues about cyberbullying, digital identity and social networks.

The main goal of Safer Internet Day is to raise awareness and start a conversation about internet safety. One company cannot make the internet wholly safe, but lots of people working together can have a big impact. Its aim is to make a safer and better internet for everyone, especially children and young people.

For resources and more information go to the Safer Internet Day website

Top tips for internet safety 

Staying safe on the internet is a vital part of modern technology use. Here are our top tips for aiding you and children in this process: 

  • Monitor your child’s internet use and keep a track of their browser history
  • Make sure you choose strong passwords for your secure information
  • Keep your privacy settings high to ensure your security
  • Ensure you're up-to-date with all the latest security software
  • Remember to be as vigilant on your mobile as your desktop or laptop. 
  • Don't click on links you don't trust.