It’s Netsafety Week and we’ve joined forces with Netsafe to promote the safe and positive use of the internet. This year’s theme is Diversity Matters. Online Safety Done Together. This week is about understanding different communities’ online safety perspectives and promoting respect and positive relationships online.
Many of us rely on the internet more than ever before to remain connected, so it’s more important than ever before that people know how to stay safe online. To help, the team at Netsafe have provided some useful tips we can take to protect ourselves and our whānau online.
Check before you share
A lot of what we see or read online is true, but sometimes it’s put there on purpose to mislead others. Help others by not sharing fake news – and report it when you see it.
Be an upstander online
Communities are safest when we look out for each other. That’s equally true online. If you see someone being bullied or harassed, report the problem to the platform where the behaviour is happening.
Discuss sensitive topics
Have positive conversations on what is and isn’t appropriate to share online.
Review your privacy settings
Lots of platforms and services have improved the tools used to manage privacy and safety settings. Take a fresh look at the tools and platforms you’re using and do an online profile check-up. Find out more here.
Make online spaces better
The internet provides us with many benefits, but we also need to work together to make online spaces a bit safer. Engaging in positive and constructive kōrero, and crediting the work of others when we share content, are some of the best ways to help.
How N4L supports online safety and security
The internet plays a big part in keeping us connected. At N4L we help keep kaiako and ākonga safer and more secure online with a range of services:
- N4L’s Safe & Secure Internet includes; Web Filtering, Firewall Solutions, DNS Threat Protection and DDoS Protection.
- Our new Email Protection solution offers eligible schools a greater level of protection against cyber threats, which will complement the school’s existing Microsoft or Google email service and is fully funded by the Ministry of Education.
- Plus our dedicated security team proactively monitor our networks and systems, provide notifications of threats and vulnerabilities, identify opportunities for improvements, and work with schools to help resolve or mitigate incidents.
By joining together, we can raise awareness on how to safely use digital technology to help our communities and ākonga online and ensure more positive experiences for everyone.
For free advice and support on internet issues including bullying, grooming, scams, stalking, and image-based abuse, contact Netsafe at [email protected] or call 0508 NETSAFE (0508 638 723).