Online issues and worries: social media
This advice is aimed at children who are older than primary school age, however, it is useful to chat with your child about some of these online issues and worries related to social media
What is social media?
Social media can be a fun way to connect with people and be entertained, but it’s really important to stay safe online.
There are many types of social media, which can all be used for different things. Some of the most popular social media platforms include TikTok, Snapchat, Instagram and YouTube, but there are lots more.
You can use social media to keep in touch with friends and family, meet new people, watch videos and play games.
What can go wrong?
Social media can be fun, but dangerous or upsetting things can happen online sometimes. Here are some common things that can go wrong:
Make friendship fall outs even worse
All children fall out with their friends or peers from time to time, this can happen at school or anywhere you usually see your friends. It can be difficult to know what you should do when this happens and feelings are likely to be hurt. When you feel this way, it can be tempting to use social media to carry on an argument outside of school, involve others in your dispute as a way of getting them to take your side or act out in a way that you normally wouldn’t in real life because you are hurt and upset.
Hacking
This is when someone gets access to your account without your permission and sees your private information. Don’t share your password with anybody, and make sure it’s a strong one.
Illegal, offensive or harmful content
This is something you see online that doesn’t feel right and makes you feel uncomfortable
Online bullying
This is when someone is repeatedly mean to a person they are targeting online.
Trolling
This means posting something offensive or controversial to cause upset, get attention, or start an argument.
Catfishing
This is when someone pretends to be someone else online. They could be lying about their identity, name, age and where they live.
Scamming
This is when someone tricks someone into buying something, clicking a link or sharing personal information. Scammers are out to steal your data or your money, so beware of clicking any links.
Feeling pressure
Social media can give the impression that some people are flawless and living their best life. This can put pressure on you or make you feel bad about yourself. Remember that you only get to see the highlights. Real life isn’t always perfect. Don’t be fooled by the filter, stay true to yourself online.
Keeping your account safe
The best way to avoid the things that can go wrong on social media is to make sure you’re staying as safe as possible. These tips will help you keep your account secure:
- Update your privacy settings
- Set strong and unique passwords
- Set up two-factor authentication
Keeping yourself safe
Before posting, it might be helpful sometimes to picture yourself saying it to your parents/carers, your teacher, your next-door neighbour, or a stranger in the street. Would you share it then? Be smart so you can have fun safely.
- Think about what information you share
- Beware of meeting up with strangers
- Be open about your online life. Talk honestly and openly about how you use social media. It could make it easier to get help from an adult if something goes wrong.
- Don’t share personal information
- Age restrictions Most social media accounts are for people aged 13 and over, but some are younger or older. Age restrictions are there for your safety. If they find out that you’re lying about your age, they could close your account or ban you.
Reporting and blocking
You can control what you choose to see online. If you don’t like something, try one of these steps:
- Report
- Block
- Moderate
Where to go for help
Talk to someone – even when you’ve taken all the steps you can to keep yourself safe, sometimes things can go wrong. If you need help, talk to an adult you trust, like family members, teachers, or youth workers. If you’re worried about starting a conversation with an adult, here are some tips.
- Meic – free and confidential helpline for children and young people in Wales with advisers to help you find the support you need. Call 080880 23456, text 84001, or chat online
- Childline – free, private, and confidential helpline for children and young people in the UK where you can talk about anything. Call 0800 1111
- App guides for families – information on the most popular apps, social media platforms and games, including how to block and report content
- Internet Matters – step-by-step guides to privacy settings on social media, live streaming, and gaming apps
HAVE A CONVERSATION WITH YOUR CHILD
UK Safer Internet Centre have created some free activities and information for parents and carers which are available at: saferinternet.org.uk/SID-parents
Whether you have 5 minutes to start a conversation or hours to spare, there are top tips, quizzes and films which you can use at home with your child.
