Social Media Safety: Tips for Staying Safe Online

Social media is a great way to stay connected with friends and family, but it can also be a dangerous place. Here are some tips for staying safe online:

• Create a strong password. Your password should be at least 12 characters long and include a mix of upper and lowercase letters, numbers, and symbols.
• Use privacy settings. Make sure your privacy settings are set to the most restrictive level possible. This will help to limit who can see your posts and information.
• Be careful about what you share. Don't share personal information, such as your address, phone number, or school name. You should also be careful about sharing photos that could be used to identify you.
• Be wary of strangers. Don't accept friend requests from people you don't know. If you do interact with someone you don't know, be careful about what you share with them.
• Report abuse. If you see something that makes you uncomfortable, report it to the social media platform.
• Talk to your kids about social media safety. Make sure your kids know about the risks of social media and how to stay safe.

By following these tips, you can help to protect yourself from online dangers.

Here are some additional tips for social media safety:

• Be aware of the risks of cyberbullying. Cyberbullying is when someone uses social media to bully or harass another person. It can be just as harmful as in-person bullying, and it can be difficult to stop. If you are being cyberbullied, it is important to tell a trusted adult.
• Be aware of the risks of online grooming. Online grooming is when someone builds a relationship with a child online in order to exploit them. It can be difficult to spot, but there are some red flags to look for, such as someone who asks a child for personal information or tries to meet them in person. If you are concerned that a child is being groomed, it is important to tell a trusted adult.
• Keep your software up to date. Software updates often include security patches that can help to protect you from online threats. Make sure you keep your software up to date, including your operating system, web browser, and antivirus software.
• Use a VPN. A VPN (Virtual Private Network) can help to protect your privacy and security online by encrypting your traffic and routing it through a secure server. This can help to prevent hackers from monitoring your activity or stealing your data.
• Be mindful of your surroundings. When you are using social media in public, be mindful of your surroundings and who is around you. Don't share personal information or use your phone if you feel unsafe.

By following these tips, you can help to stay safe online and enjoy the benefits of social media without the risks.

Further reading: A guide to help young people protect themselves from Cyberbullying