Internet safety facts for kids
Staying safe online, also known as internet safety or cyber safety, means knowing how to protect yourself and your information when you use the internet. It's super important because so much of our lives happen online, from learning to playing games and talking with friends. Sometimes, bad things can happen if we're not careful, like our private information getting out or seeing content that isn't right for us. Learning about internet safety helps you enjoy all the great things the internet offers without falling into traps.
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Protecting Your Information Online
When you're online, you share different kinds of information. This includes your name, where you live, your email, and passwords. This is called personal information, and it's like your digital identity. Keeping this information private is very important, just like keeping your diary a secret. If someone gets hold of your personal details without permission, they could pretend to be you. This is called identity theft, and it can cause a lot of problems.
Spotting Tricky Scams (Phishing)
Imagine someone sending you a fake message that looks like it's from your bank or a popular game, asking for your password. This trick is called phishing. Scammers try to fool you into giving them your private information, like passwords or account details. They often create fake websites or emails that look exactly like real ones. Always be suspicious of messages that ask for your personal information, especially if they seem urgent or too good to be true. Check the sender's address carefully and never click on suspicious links.
Understanding Harmful Software (Malware)
Malware is a short name for malicious software. It's like a sneaky program designed to get onto your computer or phone without you knowing. Once there, it can do harmful things, such as stealing your private information, slowing down your device, or even locking you out of your files. Malware can spread through suspicious emails, unofficial websites, or by downloading files from unknown sources. To protect your devices, always use trusted antivirus software and be careful about what you click on or download.
Staying Safe When You Connect with Others
The internet is amazing for connecting with friends and family, and meeting new people. But it's also important to remember that not everyone online is who they say they are. Some people might try to be mean, trick you, or make you feel uncomfortable. Knowing how to recognize these situations and what to do is a big part of staying safe.
Dealing with Online Harassment
Sometimes, people might use the internet to repeatedly bother or upset someone. This can happen through messages, social media posts, or in online games. This kind of online harassment can make you feel sad, scared, or angry. If someone is bothering you online, remember it's not your fault. You should block them, save any messages as proof, and tell a trusted adult right away.
Stopping Cyberbullying
Cyberbullying is when someone uses electronic devices or the internet to intentionally hurt, embarrass, or threaten another person. This can include sending mean messages, spreading rumors, or posting embarrassing pictures or videos. Cyberbullying can make you feel very alone and upset. If you or someone you know is being cyberbullied, it's important to:
- Not respond to the bully.
- Save the evidence (screenshots).
- Block the bully.
- Tell a trusted adult, like a parent, teacher, or school counselor. They can help you figure out what to do next.
What to Do About Unwanted Content
Sometimes, when you're browsing online, you might accidentally come across websites or images that are not appropriate for your age, or that make you feel uncomfortable. This could be through pop-up ads or links you didn't mean to click. If this happens, don't panic. The best thing to do is to close the page immediately and tell a trusted adult about what you saw. They can help you understand why it happened and how to avoid it in the future.
Beware of Online Pressure and Threats
It's important to be very careful about who you talk to online. Some people might pretend to be someone they're not, like a friendly peer, to gain your trust. They might then try to pressure you into sharing private information, pictures, or doing things you don't want to do. If someone online ever asks you to keep secrets from your parents, or makes you feel uncomfortable or threatened, you must tell a trusted adult immediately. It's never your fault if someone tries to trick or threaten you online.
Keeping Your Personal Details Private (Doxxing)
Doxxing is when someone shares your private information online without your permission. This could be your home address, phone number, or even your school. People who do this often have bad intentions and want to cause trouble or harass you in the real world. It's very important to be careful about what personal information you share online and to whom. In extreme cases, some people have even made fake emergency calls to send police to someone's home, which is very dangerous and illegal.
Understanding Online Strangers and Trust
When you meet new people online, it's hard to know if they are truly who they say they are. Some adults might pretend to be kids or teenagers to try and become friends with younger people. They might try to gain your trust over time, asking you to keep secrets or do things you wouldn't normally do. This is a serious concern. Remember these important rules:
- Never share personal details with online strangers.
- Never agree to meet someone you only know online in person without a trusted adult.
- Adults should not ask kids to keep secrets from their parents.
- If an adult online asks you to do something that makes you feel uncomfortable, or asks for private information or pictures, tell a trusted adult right away.
Who Helps Keep Us Safe Online?
Many people and organizations work hard to make the internet a safer place for everyone, especially kids and teenagers.
- Safer Internet Day is celebrated every February around the world. It's a special day to learn and talk about how to use the internet safely and responsibly.
- Organizations like Childnet and the Australian eSafety Commissioner provide resources and advice for young people, parents, and educators on how to stay safe online.
- Campaigns like Get Safe Online in the UK also help educate people about online risks and how to protect themselves.
These groups help create tools, teach good habits, and support anyone who needs help with online safety.
The Golden Rules of Internet Safety
- Rule 1: Keep your personal information private
- Rule 2: Think before you click or share
- Rule 3: Be kind online (no cyberbullying!)
- Rule 4: Use strong passwords
- Rule 5: Ask a trusted adult
- before signing up for new apps or games: They can help you understand the privacy settings and make sure it's appropriate for your age.
- if you see something that makes you feel uncomfortable or scared: Whether it's a picture, a video, or a message, tell an adult right away.
- if someone online asks for personal information: Even if they seem friendly, always check with an adult.
- if someone asks to meet up in real life: NEVER agree to meet someone you've only met online without a trusted adult knowing and approving, and even then, it's usually best to avoid it.
- if you're not sure about something: It's always better to ask than to guess!
- Rule 6: Understand Privacy Settings
- Rule 7: Be Smart About Strangers Online
- Rule 8: Recognize Scams and Tricky Stuff
- Rule 9: Balance Your Screen Time
The internet is an incredible tool for learning, playing, and connecting, and by following these golden rules of internet safety, you can enjoy all its wonders while staying safe and sound.
See also
- Content control software
- Identity fraud
- Internet crime
- Parental controls
