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Online safety

We have come to rely on the Internet in today’s society; however there are some dangers out there we need to be aware about. It is important that you are equipped with the knowledge and skills to safeguard yourself in a virtual environment. Connexions is committed to working with young people to enable you to manage risk in a virtual world.

It's easy to remain anonymous on the web and this can encourage some people to make up things up about themselves, even passing off someone else's face as their own. It’s difficult to judge if someone is genuine, especially as you cannot see the person. This is why you should be cautious and not give too much away about yourself, family or friends.

What are the risks? 

• Exposure to inappropriate material
• Experiencing inaccurate or misleading information
• Experiencing cyberbullying
• Grooming

 Tips to stay web-wise

• Don't give out personal details, photographs, or any other information that could be used to identify you, such as your address, your school, your mobile number or information about your family. 
• Don't take people at face value - they may not be what they seem and people often lie. 
• If you publish a picture or video online be aware that anyone can change it or share it.
• On social network sites make sure you know what your security settings are. This is so you know if your details can be accessed by:
  • anyone
  • friends
  • friends of friends
• Ignore junk mail – just delete it. Do not respond or click to unsubscribe.
• It’s never too late to tell someone if something makes you feel uncomfortable.
• Don’t meet up with strangers without an adult.
• Always stay in public areas of a chat room and where there are other people around. Read the chat room guidelines on how to block someone or to report abuse.  Remember, you’re in control in a chat room, you don’t have to talk to anyone you don’t want to.
• Don't open an attachment or download a file unless you know and trust the person who has sent it.
• Never respond directly to anything you find disturbing - save or print it, log off and tell an adult.

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