Stay Safe Online
The internet is a great place to learn, play, create and keep in touch with friends. But just like in the real world, it is important to know how to keep yourself safe.
Remember: if something online makes you feel worried, uncomfortable or unsafe, you don't have to deal with it alone.
Our top tips for staying safe online
🔒 Keep your information private
Don't share personal information such as your full name, address, school, passwords or location with people you don't know.
💬 Be careful who you talk to
People online aren't always who they say they are. Be cautious when talking to people you don't know in real life.
📸 Think before you share
Once something is posted or sent online, you can't always control who sees it or where it goes. Think carefully before sharing photos, videos or messages.
🤔 Stop and think
Not everything you see online is true. Ask yourself: Who made this? Can I trust it? Is there another source that says the same thing?
❤️ Be kind
Treat people online in the same way you would want to be treated in person. Don't join in with bullying, rumours or hurtful comments.
🚫 Block and report
If someone is making you uncomfortable, bullying you or sending you things you don't want to see, you can block and report them.
🗣️ Tell someone
If something online worries or upsets you, tell a trusted adult. This could be a parent or carer, teacher, family member or another adult you trust.
You will never be in trouble for asking for help.
Need help?
Childline
Childline is here to help with anything that is worrying you. You can talk to a counsellor online or call 0800 1111 for free.
CEOP
If someone has behaved inappropriately towards you online, or you are worried about online sexual abuse or grooming, you can report it to CEOP.
If you are in immediate danger, call 999 and tell a trusted adult.
Learn more about staying safe online
UK Safer Internet Centre
Find games, videos, advice and activities to help you stay safe and have a positive experience online.
Explore Online Safety Resources
Thinkuknow
Thinkuknow has age-appropriate advice and activities to help children and young people stay safe online.
Remember...
STOP – BLOCK – REPORT – TELL
If something doesn't feel right online:
STOP and take a moment.
BLOCK the person or account if you need to.
REPORT the content or account.
TELL a trusted adult.
You don't have to deal with it on your own.