Online crime advice 0-10
You probably use the internet everyday to learn about new things, play games and chat with your friends.
But like anywhere you go to, you need to make sure you stay safe and happy when using apps, websites and message boards online – as some people use it as a place to trick, bully or hurt people.
Some people may also pretend to be someone else online.
What is online crime?
Types of online crime are:
Cyber-bullying: This is when people send nasty and upsetting messages. Find out more in our cyber-bullying section.
Cyber stalking: This is when people constantly follow you around and send horrible messages on social media, apps, websites or online messengers to frighten and annoy you.
Grooming: This is when older people pretend to be your age and ask you to do things.
If you feel like you’re being bullied online or are worried someone is pretending to be someone else – tell an adult that you trust straight away, or talk to Voice.
How do I stay safe online?
To stay safe when using the internet, on apps, websites, message boards and messengers, follow these top tips:
- never share your phone number, address, email address, or where you go to school with anyone;
- never tell anyone your passwords, or let them use your accounts;
- think very hard before sending photos of yourself or putting them on websites and social media pages. Once your picture is online, anyone can download it and share it, or even change it;
- never meet someone you have only been in contact with online. This can be very dangerous as online friends are still strangers even if you have been talking to them for a long time;
- never write back to horrible posts made by other people – tell an adult that you trust of this has happened or talk to Voice;
- when chatting online, only chat to your friends and family, keep it to people you know!
- don’t believe everything you read – sometimes people don’t tell the truth!
If you’ve seen something that upset you or something nasty has happened to you online, tell an adult that you trust straight away, or speak to Voice.