Staying safe online

Last Updated on Thursday, 31 March 2011 09:06

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The internet is an awesome creation- it makes studying easy, finding out information and buying things a total breeze, and can provide endless hours of entertainment playing online games and chatting to mates. There are a few things that you need to be aware of though. Like most things, the internet is safe most of the time- but you still need to be careful, or even just aware, of some of the things you may come across.

Social networking sites like Bebo, Myspace and Facebook can be heaps of fun. They are a great way of connecting with friends and family, especially if they don’t live in the same city, or even country as you. It’s an awesome way of seeing what people are up to, and how they are doing. Setting up your profile is heaps of fun - and work! There are a few things you should think about before you start though so click here to help you decide what you want put up, and what you don’t.

No one likes being bullied. It can leave you feeling scared, down and unsure of what to do. Unfortunately bullying isn’t something that only happens when you are face to face with someone, or with someone you know. It can also happen online or via txt messaging, and with people you may have never met before.

If you’re getting scary, mean or rude texts from someone (whether you know them or not), there are things you can do about it. One of the things that allows bullies to keep being mean is that people are too scared to ‘tell’ on them. It’s really important to tell someone so that the bully won’t get away with it.

For steps on how to deal with a text bully, click here.

Cyberbullying can be really hard. If this is happening on your social networking page, then not only is someone being mean, but they are doing it in front of all your friends. There are things you can do if you are being cyberbullied, and it’s important to remember that cyberbullying can be stopped. Click here to find out more about how you can stop being bullied online.

The best thing about stopping bullying that is happening online is that it can often be really easy to stop simply by calling your mobile phone provider (such as Vodafone or Telecom) who can block the person from texting you, or by contacting the administrator at Facebook, Bebo or Myspace. If you feel threatened or picked on then make sure you do something about it by contacting the people in charge – they’re there to help!

Lastly if you have any questions about being safe online, you can email Netsafe at This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it , call them on 0508 638 723, or visit their website www.netsafe.org.nz for heaps more info on a whole range of subjects including gaming, posting stuff online, and online trading.