Protecting yourself online
Think before you post
What you do online can end up affecting your life—not just now but well into the future. Getting tagged in a photo could end up tagging you for life. Keep yourself and your future safe by learning how to protect yourself online.
Surfing the net safely
- Realise people you chat with may not be who they say they are.
- Refuse requests for personal information and ensure your internet profile is private.
- Review your contacts. Don't accept contact requests from people you don't know.
- Respond quickly if you ever feel uncomfortable while on-line. Close the program, tell your parents or a trusted friend.
- Report any suspicious or dangerous on-line contact to the police.
Online safety tips
- Never give out personal information like your name, address, phone number or school.
- Make sure your screen name doesn’t reveal personal information about you.
- Check your profile doesn’t show any personal information that someone could use to find you.
- Only allow your friends to view your profile or blog.
- Never send your picture to someone you don’t know.
- Don’t accept invitations to use webcams with people you don’t know.
- Never arrange to meet someone in person that you met online.
- Be aware that predators may ask you personal questions as they attempt to become your friend quickly.
- Chatting to a person online, even if it’s a lot is not the same as knowing someone in person and you shouldn’t give them your trust.
Test your Cyber smarts
Cybernetrix helps young people avoid the risks and dangers of:
- the internet
- online chat rooms, bullying and scams
- mobile phones
- identity theft
- cyberstalking.
CyberNetrix for 13–16 year olds
If you’re aged 13–16, Cybernetrix can show you how to avoid some of the risks of the internet. Learn how to handle chat room and mobile phone dangers, including online scams, identity theft, online bullying and cyberstalking.
CyberQuoll for 8–12 year olds
If you’re aged 8–12, CyberQuoll can teach you handy tips and tricks to make sure you don’t get into any trouble while using the net.
Cybersafety Help Button
Download the free Cybersafety Help Button to your computer or mobile. If you come across anything you are unsure about, or that upsets you on the internet, click on the button at anytime for help and advice.
Cybersmart
Cybersmart shows you how to have fun online—while being safe. Learn how to deal with cyber bullying, keep your personal details private, protect your digital reputation and avoid unwanted contact.
Get Out There
Get Out There has simple tips on avoiding identity theft, phishing and smishing scams and shopping online safely.
Stay Smart Online
Stay Smart Online offers handy tips and simple steps you can take to protect your personal and financial information online. Have fun on the net and stay safe and secure by learning how to use social networking sites while still protecting your personal information. Learn to deal with cyberbullying and keep your mobile phone secure. Pick up on online grooming warning signs (when someone older tries to get in contact with you on the net).
SuperClubs PLUS
SuperClubsPLUS Australia is a safe social learning network for people aged 6–14. You are guided through creating your own webpage and chatting safely online. You can also enter competitions and win prizes.
The Line
Take a look at The Line and learn about respectful relationships—what’s OK and what’s not. Have you ever crossed the line and offended or upset someone? Has someone crossed your line? Is it OK to:
- have someone put photos of you up on the net?
- hook up with someone when you know they’re really drunk?
- constantly message someone or be messaged by someone?
- send photos of yourself via text, email or Skype?
Learn how to draw a clear line on what’s OK and not OK for you.
Kids Helpline
Take a look at Kids Helpline to find information about safe technology and social networking. Understand the risks involved with displaying personal information, photos, sexting and entering chat rooms.
