Getting to grips with parental controls.

A number of parents have found the internet matters website as a good resource for a range of device and internet safety information.

Momo Challenge

As you may be aware from the media, there is a new social media challenge targeting children and young adults called the ‘Momo Challenge,’ which has created concern throughout the country due to its disturbing nature. We are writing to make you aware of this challenge, provide you with information about it, and urge you to monitor your children’s use of social media and the Internet. The ‘Momo Challenge’ is a game found on Facebook and the app WhatsApp, and features a frightening character who asks its viewers to perform various tasks and provide photos as proof. The ‘Momo’ threatens those who do not perform the tasks. The ‘Momo’ character is now hacking into YouTube and YouTube Kids, popping up on screens whilst children are watching videos. If you would like to learn more about the ‘Momo Challenge’ please visit the links below. Please be warned that some of the images and stories may be disturbing.

https://nationalonlinesafety.com/resources/platform-guides/momo-online-safety-guide-for-parents

The link below is a useful website on ways that you can get involved in conversations with your child about what they are doing and who they are talking to online.

https://www.internetmatters.org/cyberbullying2-2/protect-your-child/

Drugs Awareness

If you are concerned about drugs and substance abuse the Talk to Frank website is a respected source of no nonsense clearly presented information with regard to drugs and substance abuse. The Bristol Drugs Project is a locally based source of information and guidance.

Remember that if you have concerns about your own safety or the safety of others due to drugs or substance abuse you can raise your concerns using the RGS anonymous reporting tool. Whisper.

Digital Friendships Report

There is some excellent commentary and analysis about how young people use and feel about the use of social media. It really helps those of us who are less comfortable with the use of online world to build and maintain relationships. You can read the review here.

Being in control

One of the themes of the upcoming Safer Internet Day on Tuesday 6 February is the idea that a safer internet comes from being in control of what you post and who you are in contact with. But what happens when you lose control and events spiral out of control. There is some fantastic advice on the SWGL website about a range of esafety topics and of particular note is this particularly focused guide to support young people who have been tricked into behaviours that place them at risk.

Live streaming apps

You may have seen the recent BBC report with regard to Live streaming apps such as Periscope run by Twitter. While such reports always have to be viewed in context it is a reminder to us all that we can find ourselves under pressure to behave on line in ways that we would not be comfortable with. The very sensible guidance about video chat use here applies to these live streaming apps and should be followed.

Keeping esafe over the Christmas Break

Christmas is an exciting time and many of us will be giving or receiving technology on Christmas Day. Whether it a new tablet, smartphone or gaming package it is very important that we ensure we support our excitement with these top festive esafety tips here.