Staying Safe Online
Below is advice on how to stay safe whilst being online.
Staying Safe Online
Ensuring your safety while using the internet on your phone, laptop, or tablet is crucial.
If you're ever uncertain about an online interaction or encounter suspicious content:
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Pause Before You Click: Avoid clicking on unfamiliar links or downloading unexpected attachments.
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Seek Guidance: Attend one of our Quickstart sessions for more information. Click here for more details.
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Reach Out: Contact us at 020 7942 3488 for assistance.
Software Updates
Keeping your software up to date is one of the most important steps you can take to protect your device. Most devices will notify you when updates are available.
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Learn more about keeping your device secure here.
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Avoiding Online Scams
Online scams can affect anyone. Scammers often pose as legitimate entities to steal personal information or money. To stay safe:
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Be Cautious with Communications: If you receive unexpected emails or messages requesting personal information or payment, do not click on any links or download attachments. Verify the sender by contacting the company or person directly using official contact details.
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Scrutinize Websites: Scammers create websites that mimic legitimate businesses. Always check the website address (URL) for accuracy and look for security indicators like 'https'.
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Be Alert to Phone Scams: If someone calls claiming to be from your bank, tech support, or a government agency and requests personal details, hang up and contact the organization directly using a trusted number.
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Protect Personal Information: Never send money or share personal details with unknown contacts. Scammers often fabricate emergencies or investment opportunities to deceive individuals. Always verify before proceeding
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Internet Safety for Young Children
Creating a safe online environment for children involves several key practices:
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Parental Controls: Utilize parental controls to monitor and restrict your child's internet usage, preventing access to inappropriate content. Click here to learn how to set up parental controls for various devices, browsers, and websites.
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Explore Together: Engage with your child's favorite apps and websites alongside them and maintain regular conversations with your child about their online experiences. This not only helps you understand their online interests but also provides an opportunity for shared learning and fun.
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Supervision: Keep devices in communal areas of the house, such as the living room or kitchen, where adult supervision is possible. Children under 10 should not access the internet unsupervised in private spaces.
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SafeSearch: Activate 'SafeSearch' features on web search engines to limit exposure to inappropriate material. While not foolproof, it's a helpful tool in creating a safer browsing experience.
Additional Resources Websites
The National Crime Agency website on keeping children safe online.
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‘Thinkuknow’ provides information specific to specific situations and age groups, including educational videos you and your child can watch together. They also have online educational games about how to use the internet safely.
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Lots of news and advice about staying safe on the internet. Plus as a website checker that lets you assess if a website is legitimate or a scam.
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Advice on staying safe online, aimed at older people, with links to the full range of Age UK services.
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Advice from parents and teachers about keeping children safe online.