Online Safety
Inititally, the internet was invented for military purposes but became publically available in 1991. Now it has become an integral part of 21st Century life. The internet has made everyday activities such as shopping, banking, paying bills and keeping in touch fast and easy...anytime and anywhere, particularly through the invention of smartphones. There are associated risks however, so it is helpful to have some general guidance on how you can stay safe online.
"87% of adults used the internet daily, or almost every day in 2019."
Together for a Better Internet—Join the Discussion!
Every year, Safer Internet Day is celebrated in over 150 countries, where individuals get together to promote safe, responsible and positive use of digital technology for children and young people. Safer Internet Day explores a new area or theme that are important to the young people we work with every day. This year, we are exploring whether young people feel free to be themselves online. We will explore how young people manage their online identity, and how the internet shapes how they think of themselves and others. We will look at whether the internet allows young people to experiment and express themselves, or if they feel limited in who they can be online. By opening up conversations around online identity, we aim to inspire young people to support each other in being who they want to be. We want Safer Internet Day 2020 to celebrate difference and help us work towards creating a truly inclusive internet.
Online Radicalisation
Social media is a global revolution, enabling billions of people worldwide to communicate, share thoughts and photographs. However, it can also be used by extremists as a way of communication. It enables the extremists to reach larger numbers of people and wider geographical areas. Extremists can use social media as a research tool to identify vulnerable children and adults then groom them through social networking sites, chatrooms, forums, instant messaging and texts.
If you know someone who may be susceptible to radicalisation, consider the following:
•Have their behaviour patterns changed?
•Have they become withdrawn or intorverted for no apparent reason?
•Has their belief structure altered?
•Are they making unusual travel plans?
•Are mutual friends and acquaintances also concerned?
"Mobile phones and smartphones were the most popular devices to access the internet on the go in 2019."
Supoport and Further Information:
- Get Safe Online
- Let's Talk About It
- Safer Internet Day
- NSPCC -Online Safety
- National Cyber Security Centre
- ETF Side by Side Training Modules
- Internet access statistics - households and individuals, Great Britain: 2019
DPG Safeguarding Contact Details
Central email address:
Apprenticeship.safeguarding@dpgplc.co.uk
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