Be safe online
If you are concerned about the welfare of a child contact the Southampton Children's Resource Service on 023 8083 3004 or email childrensresourceservice@southampton.gov.uk
Call 999 if you are concerned that a child is in immediate danger.
The internet can be a great way to talk to friends, play games, watch videos and listen to music. But not everyone online is real or honest about who they say they are.
Tips for staying safe online
- Never use your real name in chat rooms
- Don’t give out personal information such as your address, mobile number, passwords, school, the clubs you go to, photos of yourself - even if someone tells you things about themselves
- Never respond to rude or mean messages (and don’t send any to other people)
- Never create or post a video or picture you wouldn't want shared
- Only arrange to meet someone you have been chatting to with your parent’s/carer’s permission and at a time when they can come with you
- Be careful about accepting messages if you don’t know or trust the person who sent them – they can contain nasty images or viruses that may damage your devices
- Remember you can block people in a chat or instant messenger
- Agree some rules with your parents about what’s OK to do online and what isn’t – it will save arguments later!
- If anything makes you feel uncomfortable or worried, talk to your parents/carers/teachers about it
Bullying online
Bullying online, also called 'cyberbullying' is when someone targets and deliberately upsets someone using the internet. It could be by someone you know or a stranger. Because it can happen on your phone or computer which you have continuous access to it can feel like it's hard to escape. It can make you feel scared, worried and overwhelmed by the situation. Childline and Childnet have more information and some great advice about what to do if you experience bullying or see a friend being bullied.
Beware of Lurking Trolls
This gruesome gang of online troublemakers are here to help you learn how to spot and defeat dangers online.
The internet should be a fun, safe space for you to explore and learn more about the world. But some children may sometimes come across harmful or confusing things. This dastardly squad of trolls are mischievous, sneaky little creatures that will help you spot potential perils and know what to do if something goes wrong online.
There’s a whole host of tyrannical trolls to meet, each with their own character. The Trolls will help you develop the skills needed to recognise and overcome issues so that you can stay safe online.
