3/4 News…
Police Visit: Cyber Safety
On the 12th of November, the 3/4 students participated in a Police incursion. Constable Sarah Davisfrom the Forest Hill Police Station, came and talked with the students about how to stray safe online.
Apps that many of the students are using currently have an age limit. We discussed why this was and the effects they can have on children. Many have videos, ads, and content which are aimed at adults. Viewing these can be traumatising and inappropriate for children.
Sarah urged the children to seek help from trusted adults if they feel uneasy, unsure or if they make a mistake online (e.g. giving out names, ages or other personal information).
Here are a few of the RED FLAGS for students to look out for.
- People asking personal questions e.g. which school a child attends, name, suburb, favourite hobbies, address.
- Asking to meet up e.g. let’s go play soccer in a park etc.
- Any weird feeling questions.
- Wanting to talk on another app or platform.
What to do.
- Stop talking to them.
- Block and report them.
- Seek help - teachers, parents, older siblings, police officers , aunts/uncles, grandparents.
Remember: Not everyone online is who they say they are.
Other tips Sarah mentioned were for students to make their usernames fun, and to not include their real name in them at all (first, middle, last, nicknames, parts of name).
Also, to never share locations (turn them off), as they can make a timeline that others can use to find out where they like to spend time.
Kids, remember to take screenshots of suspicious messages so that you can show a trusted adult, and the police when needed.
Kids help line: free to call or go online
Ph: 1800 55 1800
More information for parents:
https://www.police.vic.gov.au/online-child-safety
https://www.esafety.gov.au/parents/issues-and-advice/parental-controls
