Internet safety campaign highlights online dangers in the North

A major internet safety campaign was launched today to alert children and parents in the North to dangers lurking online.

Ahead of the new school term the PSNI joined with Tesco to promote internet safety through billboards and leaflets at checkouts at branches selling computer equipment.

The leaflets will also be delivered with every online grocery order made with the supermarket over the coming two weeks.

The distinctive specially designed billboard advertisement will be on display and targeting shoppers for the next two weeks at the Tesco branch at Knocknagoney in east Belfast, the store at Chapel Hill, Lisburn and on the Sydenham by-pass.

PSNI Inspector David Connery, head of PSNI Crime Prevention, said: “With minds turning to preparing for the return to school or college in the next couple of weeks, we wanted to highlight some simple, straightforward internet advice for children, young people and parents.

“The use of computers and the internet has increased massively, not just as a research tool for homework, projects and coursework, but also as a leisure activity and a way of communicating with friends.

“We are very mindful that many parents may not necessarily be aware of the potential dangers of the internet, let alone just how technically advanced their children may be!”

The internet safety tips are:

:: Always keep your personal details private – including your name, address, email & mobile number – you wouldn’t give a stranger the keys to your house.

:: If you upload a picture, remember anyone can use it or alter it – or even pretend they are you.

:: Keep online friends online. Don’t be tempted to meet up off-line.

:: If you receive an email from someone you don’t know, don’t read it or believe it, just hit delete.

:: There’s some great stuff online, but don’t forget, there’s some bad stuff too. If someone or something makes you uncomfortable or worried, tell a trusted adult – remember you’re in charge of you online.

Tesco marketing manager Caoimhe Mannion said they were delighted to be working on the campaign with the PSNI as they felt it was important to play a part in raising awareness of internet safety among children.

“We are all aware of the huge benefits associated with using the internet in terms of learning and broadening our horizons, however the dangers are all too apparent and need to be highlighted.

“Thus our goal is not scaremongering but getting an informative message across to all those involved,” she said.