Online hub aims to make internet a safer realm
The SpunOut.ie online safety hub contains a set of easy-to-understand guides and advises on ways to safeguard users’ privacy and security when using popular social platforms such as Twitter, Facebook, and SnapChat, and dating apps like tinder, Grindr, and OK Cupid.
SpunOut.ie action panel member Ellie Walsh, 22, described the hub as a “giant move forward” in empowering young people to be informed and take control of their online sharing.
“It is vital that the discussions around the online safety of young people doesn’t only exist in adult forums,” she said.
The hub, launched at Twitter’s headquarters in Dublin yesterday to mark Safer Internet Day, has “youth-proofed” articles and advice for young people.
“This platform will encourage young people to be pro-active about keeping safe online and hopefully encourage dialogue among peers,” said Ms Walsh.
Global head of safety outreach at Twitter, Patricia Cartes, said protecting users and creating a positive and trusted online environment was paramount to Twitter.
She said the hub, part of a set of wider initiatives being introduced worldwide, showed how a safer internet could be created with all of the interested parties working together.
“The resources that we are building together contain a wealth of information on how to save privacy settings; what to do if you feel uncomfortable about something that you see online and how to protect yourself,” said Ms Cartes.
She said Twitter and its partners wanted to create resources that were attractive to young people —using the type of language they would use to describe their feelings.
Lots of useful information on @SpunOut Online Safety Hub - important to stay safe on the internet and when using apps. #SID2015
— Frances Fitzgerald (@FitzgeraldFrncs) February 10, 2015
The CEO of St Patrick’s Mental Health Services, Paul Gilligan, said no matter how much regulation and legislation was introduced, the only way to protect young people is to educate them on how to understand and manage their internet lives.
Those attending the launch, including the media, were asked to sign a confidentiality agreement to gain admission to Twitter’s headquarters.
spunout.ie/OnlineSafety
trendmicro.ie/whatsyourstory
Keep passwords strong
Take screen grabs for evidence of being bullied or abused
Try not to react to posts online; don’t feed the trolls
. Don’t be a bystander when you see bullying or abuse online — say something or report it
Check your privacy settings
Think before you type
To view more content visit: SpunOut.ie/OnlineSafety
CONNECT WITH US TODAY
Be the first to know the latest news and updates
