On Tuesday, 9 February 2021, it is Safer Internet Day. The theme is “Together for a better internet", the day asks people to join together to make the internet a safer and better place for all, and especially for children and young people.
At the Growth Company, we take internet safety seriously and therefore we want to share information with everyone which we share with our staff and learners.
During lockdown, it is especially important that you know how to keep safe online.
Although not common, sadly, there are negative individuals who utilise the internet, social media, and online gaming to spread their extreme ideas or attempt at getting you involved in organised crime for ‘easy money’. This may include selling drugs (this is called county lines; this means that drug dealers from cities use young people to sell, distribute or store drugs/cash locally), or they may ask you to sell high price items such as counterfeit trainers and watches. This illegal activity and ‘grooming’ is sometimes hard to even identify with new exciting friends.
We want everyone to be clear about what to do should someone share hateful literature or other activities that you don’t feel comfortable with. We all think it won’t happen to us and people that are targets may be lonely, bored, isolated, but this isn’t always the case! These people are professionals, their job is to befriend you and convince you to help them ‘as a friend’. When a person starts to support or becomes involved by sharing these extreme views, this is called radicalisation.
Whilst using social media you may have come across strong views around the Coronavirus pandemic to include:
- Conspiracy theories
- Blaming other people for the virus and its impact on life
- Hate against groups because of race, religion, sexuality, and gender
Stay safe online by following these 5 SMART rules.
If something feels wrong or extreme you should share this information with an organisation or someone who can help. These websites can provide you with information and guidance, and also allow you to share your concerns - Let’s Talk About It and Action Counter Terrorism.
You can contact NSPCC online or call their helpline 0808 800 5000.
Children can call Childline on 0800 1111 if they want to talk through their concerns.
If you’re worried someone is in immediate danger, you should always call 999.
