Online Safety and Grooming

• Pd
• Higher Education (non-degree)

Social networking

An online service or site through which people create and maintain interpersonal relationships

What social networking app
do you use the most?

Why do you think people like to use social media?

Keeping safe online

1.  What do you know about safety online?
2. What are the possible risks?
3. What is 'grooming'?

The internet is an amazing tool but it is important to recognise that there are also potential risks involved. 

One of these relates to how much trust we place in people we have never met.

What are some disadvantages of social media?

You can be:

• Abused online
• Exploited for money
• Experience fraud
• Witness violence
• Be a victim of manipulation
• Become involved in extremism
• Become involved in a relationship which someone who is not who they say they are. 

A reminder of what you can you do to stay safe?

Don’t use your real name and be careful what you choose

to use 

Tell someone if you are worried someone is not who they claim to be.

Tell an adult if someone is bullying you or being inappropriate

Block anyone who you don't know - especially on gaming devices people could be trying to pose as a young person.

What should you not put on social media?

Staying safe online

• Mobile number
• Address 
• Email 
• Where you study or work
• When and where you are meeting friends 
• Regular habits or routines e.g. when and where you walk your dog  

What personal information should you AVOID sharing online?

1. Favorite color, favorite food, hobbies, music preferences
2. Mobile number, address, email, study/work details, meeting plans, regular habits

What are the possible risks of being online?

1. Finding new friends, learning new things, entertainment, shopping
2. Abuse, exploitation, fraud, violence, manipulation, extremism, false relationships

Hints and tips

1.  Choose and use passwords wisely – Make certain that your password contains at least 8 characters, including a variety of numbers, letters, and/or symbols. Do not share your passwords. Use a range of different passwords for different sites.
2. When you receive a message that makes you feel uncomfortable, do not respond – Immediately shut off your monitor or close your laptop and talk to a parent or trusted adult.
3. Use your computer in a positive manner that is respectful and courteous to others – Remember, it is important to use your system to do good things—not harm.
4. Protect your personal data by not giving out your name, address, phone number, etc. – This information should only be given to people that you trust. If ever you have a niggle of a doubt, trust your instincts.
5. Help others to recognize the importance of protecting yourself and your computer system – Share these steps with your friends and family

Hints and tips - ways to be safe online.