THE PSNI are urging parents to monitor their children’s social media usage.
The warning has been sounded after officers launched probes into two reports from parents relating to their children receiving sexually explicit images from other social media users and being asked to take similar images of themselves and send them via the ‘ooVoo’ app.
Sergeant White says: “Neighbourhood officers are working with local schools in the area to deliver awareness sessions with young people to help keep them safe online.
“In addition, though we would ask parents to – chat to your child, find out what platforms they are using, the type of information they are sharing and use settings available to help ensure they aren’t put at risk.”
Social Media – Things to Speak to Your Child About
• Privacy and security settings – learn about security settings. Settings change on a regular basis. They help you to control who can see what you post.
• Don’t accept people you do not know as friends.
• Remember: What you post online stays online – If pictures you posted were put on a billboard for everyone to see, how would you feel?
• Keep personal information private.
– Do you post your Snapchat and BBM usernames/codes online for others to see, are you leaving yourself open to unwanted contact?
– Do you post your email address and/or mobile number online?
– Are there pictures of you in your school uniform? Remember this can be used to identify you and your friends.
• Passwords – Use a mixture of random words and numbers. Treat passwords like your toothbrush – don’t let anyone else use them!
If you are experiencing problems online, there are sources of help.
– Report it to the site using the ‘Report’ button.
– Speak to a parent, guardian, teacher, PSNI or someone you trust for information and advice on the matter.
– Visit www.thinkuknow.co.uk for more information. This website is excellent for parents wanting to learn more about online safety.
