... for children

Our dependence on the Internet as a society has increased extensively since its creation. It is used in the workplace, at home and in schools as a valuable resource tool.

However, the Internet does have risks. In this section you can find help and advice on protecting children on the Internet.

Children are using the Internet more and more to complete homework and keep in touch with friends through Social Networking sites such as Facebook, Bebo and many others.

There is a wealth of information available to them, however some material may not be suitable for children’s viewing. There is also an added threat from other adults on line who may want to take advantage of your child in some way.

Please find below some top advice from Suffolk Police for keeping your children safe while surfing the Internet:

• Please ensure the computer or laptop is used in a family room, where access to the Internet can be supervised
• Agree some rules with your child regarding access and the sort of sites they can use
• Use filter software to block out unsuitable websites
• Discuss and educate your children about being safe online and the dangers they could be subject to. Please visit www.thinkuknow.co.uk for more advice and resources to help inform your child
• Stress the importance of them not giving out personal details and not arranging to meet strangers they have met online without a parent/guardian present
• Make your child aware of cyber bulling and encourage good behaviour on social networking sites
• Encourage your child to speak with you if they are unhappy with anything they have viewed on the Internet so further filters can be put in place or if they are concerned about someone who has contacted them online
• Take an interest in what your child is viewing and who they are speaking to online.