RNC REMINDS FAMILIES ABOUT ONLINE SAFETY

(Sept 9th)

The Royal Newfoundland Constabulary (RNC) is reminding students, parents and guardians about the importance of online safety as the school year begins.

The RNC is encouraging parents to teach responsible online behaviour and establish clear guidelines for their children to help promote a safe online experience.

Parents are advised to keep tablets and other internet-connected devices in common areas of the home rather than in bedrooms or other private spaces. The RNC also recommends that parents know their children’s usernames and passwords and regularly monitor their online activity.

Parental controls can also be used to reduce the risk of children being exposed to sexually explicit content.

The RNC is also reminding parents to discuss the sharing of photographs with their children. Children should understand that pictures should only be exchanged with parental permission and that once a picture has been sent to someone else, it cannot be retracted.

Open communication is another important part of online safety. Parents are encouraged to discuss appropriate and inappropriate material with their children and maintain an ongoing dialogue about their online experiences.

Children should also be taught never to give out personal information without permission.

The RNC is urging parents to talk to their children about cyberbullying and to stress the importance of not participating in it. Children should be encouraged to tell an adult immediately if they encounter cyberbullying.

Anyone who experiences suspicious activity online is encouraged to report it to the RNC by calling 709-729-8000.