The internet is a huge part of everyone’s life!
The internet, online gaming, social media and apps can be amazing, it should be fun and interesting however there are people who misuse the internet and it can be a dangerous place!
The internet DOES NOT make you faceless. Some people use the internet to be a troll this means they hide behind a computer screen or phone to be horrible to other people. Trolling is often treated as a crime and police take action to stop people doing this. Cyberbullying and trolling are similar however often a troll does not actually know the person they are targeting.
If you have been trolled or you are being bullied online there is some simple advice about what you should do:
- Do not respond to the person
- Screenshot anything you find upsetting or offensive
- Share your concern with an adult you trust
- Contact the police
- Try not to worry, get help to make it stop!
When you are online you leave a digital footprint. This means that whatever websites you visit and whatever you do online is logged. This is how some websites show you adverts for things you have already looked at because it uses targeted advertising. The bits of information stored are called cookies. Most websites now ask you to click to say you are ok with them storing your information.
Apps like Snapchat and Instagram are great ways to keep in touch with your friends and family. Sharing selfies and other photographs should be fun! Never share snaps online which show more than you would like the public to see! You might think it is private but once you post anything you lose control of it. Other people can easily screenshot or share anything you have posted, think before you click!
Explicit photographs are called different things depending where you live, in Dundee some people call these “dirties”. It is against the law to have explicit photographs of anyone under the age of 18. If you are under 18 and choose to send an explicit image of yourself this is also against the law. However, if someone uses force to make you send an image OR they share an image of you, they are breaking the law. If this happens to you then you should report this to the police. Staff from The Corner can help you do this.
Keeping your Passwords safe is also really important. Don’t share your passwords with anyone. It is easy to make your accounts log in automatically but is it safe?
If you think you have been a victim of online crime or your concerned about your online safety, please speak to The Corner staff and we can give you support and help. Contact us here.
For more information on online safety, please visit the following websites:
Child Exploitation and Online Protection – report online sexual abuse
Think U Know – sex, relationships and the internet (14 years plus)
Think U Know – you, your friends and the internet (11-13 years)
Think U Know – worried about a friend? (11-13 years)
Childline – need to talk? Information and advice
NSPCC – Information and advice
Respect Me – Scotland’s anti bullying service
Child Sexual Exploitation (CSE) – The Signs …. Help prevent CSE
Cool 2 Talk – safe space for young people over 12
LGBTI Youth Scotland – support and advice
A Thin Line – get the facts on online bullying, sexting and digital disrespect
ZIPIT – app responds to unwanted chat, rejects requests to send nudes