E-Safety
How to Report a Problem
Need Immediate Help?
If you're in an emergency or need immediate assistance, call 999 or contact your local police at 101 (non-emergency/local number).
When Should You Report to CEOP?
If someone has acted inappropriately toward you online or toward a child or young person you know, it’s important to report it. This could include inappropriate sexual conversations, being asked to do something that makes you feel uncomfortable, or someone pushing to meet up in person. You can report these concerns by clicking the link below.
Remember, if it’s an emergency, call 999 right away.
Other Resources
For advice and support on a variety of issues, such as hacking or cyberbullying, reach out to appropriate resources for help. https://www.ceop.police.uk/safety-centre/
Information for Parents
It’s important to know what your children are doing online and who they’re communicating with. Ask them to teach you how to use any apps or websites you’re unfamiliar with.
If possible, keep the computer in a family room. This allows you to share your child’s online experiences and reduces the chances of inappropriate behaviour (e.g., via webcam).
Help your children understand that they should never share personal information with online friends. This includes usernames, email addresses, phone numbers, and pictures of themselves, their family, or friends.
Remind your child that once they post a picture or video online, anyone can edit or share it. It’s important to consider that future employers or anyone else may see their images.
If your child receives spam or junk emails and texts, remind them not to engage, reply, or click on any links. Opening files from unknown sources is risky—they could contain viruses or inappropriate content.
Teach your child that not everyone online is truthful. Encourage them to keep online friends within the online space and never meet with strangers without a trusted adult present.
Make sure your child knows they can come to you if something online makes them uncomfortable. It’s never too late to speak up.
Finally, show your children how to block people online and report anything or anyone that makes them feel unsafe.
Useful Websites
Staying Safe Online
The misuse of the internet and mobile technologies, including trolling, sexting, cyberbullying, and sexual exploitation, can have a devastating impact on children and young people.
Advice for Students:
The internet is a great tool for learning, exploring, and connecting with others. However, we all need to be aware of the potential risks, especially on social media.
Our advice:
Avoid sharing personal information or images with people you don’t know.
Don’t accept friend requests from strangers—people online aren’t always who they claim to be.
Use privacy settings on all devices so only those you trust can view your account.
Be cautious about what you post online. Think twice before sharing anything, especially nude or nearly nude photos or videos. Even if it feels harmless at the time, these could be shared without your consent and lead to serious consequences like stalking, abuse, or blackmail.
If someone makes you uncomfortable or you experience a disturbing situation online, tell the police or a trusted adult. You can contact the police at 101, or for support, reach out to Childline at 0800 1111 or Lifeline at 0808 808 8000.
While the internet offers many positives, there are people who may try to exploit, bully, or harm you. If this happens, speak up immediately.
Remember, if something goes wrong online, there are people ready to help.
If you receive inappropriate images or links, do not share them. Instead, inform the police or a trusted adult right away. Taking action can prevent further incidents, and you won’t be in trouble for reporting it.
Advice for Parents:
The key to keeping your children safe online is open communication. Talk with them regularly about both the advantages and risks of using the internet so they feel empowered to navigate it safely.
Take an interest in their online activities. Ask about their favourite websites, online games, and hobbies, and keep an eye on what they are doing online.
Don't hesitate to ask who they’re talking to and what the conversations are about. Remind them to always inform a trusted adult if they encounter something that makes them feel uneasy or worried—there’s always help available.
Become a more “net-savvy” parent. The best way to protect your children from online dangers is to stay informed. Learn the basics of the internet, read articles, take online safety classes, or talk with other parents. You don’t need to be an expert to understand and engage with your child’s online world.
For useful advice on staying safe online, visit www.getsafeonline.org and www.safeguardingni.org. These sites offer valuable resources for parents and carers on e-safety.
Additional links and information for both parents and young people can be found on the Department of Education website at www.deni.gov.uk.