Each week we will release a NetSafe article that may be helpful to ensure your child is safe on the internet

7: MAKE A PLAN

Let your child know the options available to them if they are experiencing online challenges. Do you want them to talk to you, whānau, a trusted adult, their school or Netsafe? It’s important that you and your child make this plan together, so that both of you understand what to do if something goes wrong or they need help.

It is usually a big step when young people seek help. Netsafe’s research shows that many young people choose not to seek support when something goes wrong online. They often ignore the problem or try to fix it themselves or think their parents will take the technology away as a first step

If a young person comes to you focus on fixing the issue, not on punishing those involved or confiscating their devices – even if they did something wrong. If you overact then you’re less likely to be the first port of call next time something happens.

There are a variety of places to get support when it comes to online safety issues:

• Netsafe: Offers a free and confidential online safety service for everyone in New Zealand. It helps people with online bullying, abuse, harassment and other online challenges.

• CERT NZ provides practical information and advice on how to keep your information safe and secure online. You can also report cyber security problems

• NZ Police: If you think you or someone else is in immediate danger or if a crime has been committed call 111.

CONTACT NETSAFE

If you need help or advice, about any online issue you can contact Netsafe.

Call tollfree on 0508 638 723 – Email help@netsafe.org.nz – Report at netsafe.org.nz/report