6 - 10

school children

Online safety

The internet has lots of good things, but it can also be a scary or dangerous place

There are things you should know when you use the internet so that you stay safe.

Be careful what you click on

Websites aren’t always what they appear to be. People can try to trick you by making links look like familiar sites.

Don’t open messages or attachments from people you don’t know. They could have viruses or horrible messages in them.

Think about what you post online

Be careful what you say and which videos or photos you share.

Test yourself by asking ‘would I want my Mum / teacher / stranger on the bus to see this?’ If the answer’s no, don’t post it.

Keep your information private

You should keep details about yourself off the internet. This includes things like your birthday and your address. Even posting a photo of yourself in school uniform will tell people roughly where you live.

Remember that people online are not always what they seem. They may use your personal details to hurt you in some way.

Learn how to block and report

Take some time to learn how to stop people you don't know from chatting to you online. This called blocking.

If you feel someone is bullying you or making you feel unsafe, the website should have a way for you to report this.

You’re safer if you only chat to people you know in the real world.

If someone tries to get you to meet them, do not go. You should talk to an adult that you trust about this.

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