As many as you know everyone somewhere in the world will be hacked or not keeping themselves safe whilst on the internet. The internet is a great way to connect with your friends and learn new things. But it's also important to stay safe. People can pretend to be your age and unfortunately there have been cases where adults have pretended to be teenagers and lured young people into meeting them in dangerous situations. Some of these cases have ended up in court in the UK. There are a few ways you can help make sure you're not in danger when you use the internet.
1) Don’t post any personal information online – like your address, email address or mobile number.
2) Think carefully before posting pictures or videos of yourself. Once you’ve put a picture of yourself online most people can see it and may be able to download it, it’s not just yours anymore.
3) Keep your privacy settings as high as possible
4) Never give out your passwords
5) Don’t befriend people you don’t know
6) Don’t meet up with people you’ve met online. Speak to your parent or carer about people suggesting you do
7) Remember that not everyone online is who they say they are
8) Think carefully about what you say before you post something online
9) Respect other people’s views, even if you don’t agree with someone else’s views doesn’t mean you need to be rude
10) If you see something online that makes you feel uncomfortable, unsafe or worried: leave the website, turn off your computer if you want to and tell a trusted adult immediately.
If you have ever been victim to someone who you spoke to online and you feel it's wrong there are many charitys you can talk to, see below a list of these charitys.
- Childline - 0800 1111 (They offer a free, confidential advice and support to you if you are 18 or under.)
- NSPCC - 0808 800 5000
Advice on Life
Very important