Control
Tips for Parents/Guardians regarding Cyberbullying and Online Harassment:
If young people post abuse about anyone else online or send threats, it can be traced by the police without any difficulty. This is referred to as their digital footprint. Every time you visit a website or make a posting, your internet service provider, Sky, BT or Virgin, has an electronic note of your activity. Even if you create an anonymous email address.
Have a chat with your teenager daughter so that they know you are aware they are using social networking sites and the internet.
Let them know what is expected of them and what is a “no go”.
Being bullied online can affect someone enormously. Being bullied can impact on a person’s self-esteem, confidence and social skills. Young people should be encouraged to report to an adult if they encounter anything which is considered bullying or harassment.
Explain the dangers of posting content that you feel might be inappropriate or controversial and the trail that can be left behind.
Ensure that they know the dangers of posting content and personal details including pictures.
Encourage them not to divulge any personal details such as age, address or contact details to anyone online.
If they feel they might have put themselves in danger or feel in danger remember to reassure them that you are always there to support them.
Encourage young people not to accept any ‘friend requests’ from individuals that they do not know.
Keep computers and games consoles in family rooms where you can monitor activity. Also make sure the games your child plays online are age appropriate.
Install parental control software or activate parental controls through your internet to prevent access to inappropriate content.
‘Friend’ or ‘follow’ your child on social networking sites, so you can see how they are using them.
Check they are old enough to join any websites or social networks with age restrictions.
Avoid using webcams unless talking to close friends or family. Consider covering your webcam when it’s not in use.
Monitor your children’s internet usage, and be watchful for any secretive behaviour.
Encourage your child to be open about what they do online and who they talk to.
Review the social networking ‘help’ sections.
Stay safe by using unusual passwords. This could be achieved through using a password with a combination of letters, lowercase, uppercase, symbols and numbers.
If young people use a public computer such as one in a library, computer shop, or even a shared family computer, they should ensure they sign out before leaving the computer.
Many people want to share the fact that they are going on holiday and how long they are going for – think about the impact and danger this could be placing your family in.
