E-SAFETY at Burton

The internet is a fantastic tool if it is used correctly – we must understand the risks!

• Ever thought how odd your online life is?

• Ever thought what might go wrong?

• Check out ‘Can I be your friend?’ on YouTube

   

  Every child is different but may use the same online sites.  Children talk to each other and enthuse about what they do online.  Technology is moving so fast and as parents/carers you need to keep up and keep an open mind.  Join in and let your child educate you whilst you keep them safe.  The most important part of internet safety is conversation and communication.

   

  Remember the 3 C’s

  Content – is it age appropriate, legal, what our your children exposed to and allowing others o see about themselves?

  Conduct – is there risk of harm from interaction from others online?  Is there risk of harm from interactions between one another online?

  Contact – contact from unknown persons, young people openly engaging with strangers

   

  Games and apps

  Most games/apps have appropriate context for age, however it is the conduct and contact that poses a risk.  It is the games/apps that allow interaction between other users that increases potential risks to children and young people.

  There are many games out there that are not suitable for young people and can often contain very violent or sexualised scenes, references or context.

  Look for the Pan-European Game Information (PEGI)

   

  Checklist for parents

• Keep up to date about popular websites/apps/games
• Always check the privacy settings and make your child aware of the purpose of these (every social media site is never set up with high privacy settings – you need to change these)
• Check terms and conditions (sites can rent out your photos and other information) – you accept these when you register
• Some apps/games are based on your location which allows people to know where you are at certain times
• Bear in mind that some are webcam-based so people are able to see one another
• Don’t put photos on social media sites that give information about location (i.e. school logo on uniform)
• Most broadband providers can put security settings in place for you if you contact them
• Set up parental settings on computers and devices
• Always view YouTube videos before allowing your child to watch as it may not be what you expected
• Some sites that are not based in the UK may have different standards/ratings to us
• Be aware of language used online (e.g. pos = parent over shoulder)

Cyber bullying

• Significant concern amongst young people
• Usually harsher comments as it is not face to face so people feel that they can get away with it
• Must talk to a trusted adult

Help and Support

• Child Exploitation and Online Protection Centre (CEOP)
• Internet Watch Foundation
• UK Safer Internet Centre
• Childline
• Safer Schools and Communities Team (SSCT)
• Thinkuknow.co.uk