Online Safety

What are the issues?

The internet – on the whole is an inspiring and positive place.

The internet is an amazing resource which enables children and young people to connect, communicate and be creative in a number of different ways, on a range of devices.

However, the internet is always changing, and being able to keep up to date with your children’s use of technology can be a challenge.

You may sometimes feel that your children have better technical skills than you do, however children and young people still need advice and protection when it comes to managing their lives online.

Issues that your child may encounter on the internet will vary depending on their age and online activities.

Advice on social media & staying safe

Parental Controls

Smartphones and other devices

Children are using devices at a younger age so it’s important to consider setting controls on their tech, or on any devices that you are letting them borrow from you. We’ve pulled together a number of guides to give you simple steps to set controls on a range of devices.

E-Safety Tips for Parents

InternetMatters.org is a not-for-profit organisation that has a simple purpose – to help keep children safe in the digital world.

KC Parental Internet Settings

KCOM Parental controls lets you choose how much of the internet you would like you and your family to see. It’s easy to set up and will help you make sure that your family is safe using the internet in your home.

Choose an age profile between 1 – 6, 7 – 11, 12 – 15, 16 – 18 to control the amount of the internet you see. You can even personalise your profile to suit your family.

Switch them on now by clicking here. It’s simple, safe and free for all KCOM broadband customers.

Organisations and websites offering further information and support for online safety:

Play Like Share –

 

Play Like Share follows the adventures of Sam, Ellie and Alfie as they form a band and enter their school’s Battle of the Bands contest, taking on the mean but ‘cool’ Popcorn Wizards as they go. The three friends learn that while the internet can help, they need to use it wisely and safely.

The aim of the films is to help 8-10 year olds learn how to stay safe online. In particular, the films teach them to spot the early signs of manipulative, pressurising and threatening behaviour by people they might meet online, and develops their confidence to respond safely and get help.

Be Share Aware –

Keep your child safe online

We tell our children it’s good to share – but online it’s different. In fact sometimes sharing online can be dangerous. Being Share Aware will help keep your child safe online.

Watch and share a short film and take a look at some straightforward advice that will untangle the web, and give parents confidence in talking to their children about how to stay safe online.

 

Issues

Advice