e-Safety

Everybody is concerned about online safety.  None more so than parents and teachers.  The government is aware that increased access to the digital world can cause problems.  With media coverage of cyber-bullying, digital hackers and lapses in the security of personal data, the government has produced clear guidelines for schools, parents and students concerning keeping safe online.

In March 2008 the Byron report, commissioned by the government, was published by Dr Tanya Byron and you can read some of her recommendations here.  The full report is available by clicking here.

In her conclusion she states

"My Review has never been about stopping you from having fun or taking advantage ofthe many different opportunities in games and on the internet. It is about making sure you can still do everything that you really enjoy, in thesafest possible environment and in ways that are right for your age. I just want to make sure that all the protections that are available in the real world to keep you safe are present in your‘virtual worlds’ too."

Think U Know?

"Think U Know" is a great website with sections for parents, students and teachers.  It gives relelvant advice and offers suggestions for safeguarding yourself, whatever age, whilst online. 

Please link to the website here

Some basic rules of internet safety include:

It's best not to give out your personal details to online mates.

Personal stuff includes your messenger id, email address, mobile number and any pictures of you, your family or friends.

If you publish a picture or video online – anyone can change it or share it.

SPAM/ Junk email & texts: don’t believe it, reply to it or use it.

It’s not a good idea to open files that are from people you don’t know. You won’t know what they contain – it could be a virus, or worse – an inappropriate image or film.

It’s easier to get on with people online and say stuff you wouldn’t offline.

taken from "Think U Know"