The virtual world can be a wonderful thing, but are you doing everything you can to keep your children safe?

If you answer ‘no’ to any of these questions, then we highly recommend you follow the advice given and do a little research on what apps your child is using:

• Do you know which games and apps your children are using?
• Do you know what information they are publishing about themselves?
• Do you know if they have chat features turned on to strangers?
• Do you know who they have listed as ‘friends’?
• Do you know what the potential hazards could be within these apps?
• Do you know how to change the settings within the apps they are using?

Having open discussions with your children about anything that makes them feel uncomfortable is a good place to start.  Rather than forwarding on inappropriate links to their friends, encourage them to share them with you.

Discuss the difference between real friends and online friends. Can they be sure people are who they say they are?

Please make sure your children know they can raise any issues with you without having to deal with an immediate ban from electronics etc. for their honesty.  Children are less likely to talk about issues that come up if they feel they will be punished with a ban.

It is very good practice to be aware of what your children are viewing on a day to day basis and to have regular conversations about what they are doing online.

If you or anyone you know is worried about Child Exploitation, Online Protection or anything related to Internet safety please click the link below which will take you to the CEOP reporting website:

Tips for staying safe online:

• Know how to use the CEOP Button and how to report it to the CEOP Centre if you are concerned about someone’s online behaviour towards you.
• Only talk to people you know and trust in real life. 
• Don't give away personal information to strangers, such as where you live or where you go to school. Say 'no' if they ask you to share photos or videos of yourself.
• Set your profiles to private.
• Be 'share aware' - once you share something online, you have no control over what anyone else does with it. 
• If you see something upsetting, or someone bullies you, tell an adult you trust.
• Don't assume everything you see is true to life. People often make their lives see more exciting online.