The government has today (Thursday 23 April) published new advice to help people, particularly children, stay safe online during the UK coronavirus lockdown.
The fact that more people are working from home and with those that have children, it’s to be expected that many children are using the internet more than ever. However, there are increased risks of exposure to online harm such as cyberbullying and fake news and misinformation.
Following a virtual meeting held by the Minister for Digital and Culture and others, the guidance is a ‘four-point’ plan that recommends:
Minister for Digital and Culture – Caroline Dinenage said:
“Staying at home in order to protect the NHS and save lives means we are spending more time online.
This means we must all be extra vigilant, follow good security practice and make sure our children are safe too. It’s also important that we check the facts behind what we read and remember to take regular breaks.
We are completely committed to making the UK the safest place to be online, and that’s why we have brought together a wealth of practical advice which I urge parents to use and share with their children.”
As well as the advice mentioned above, the new guidance encourages people to consider:
UK Safer Internet Centre Director and Childnet CEO, Will Gardner, said:
“Technology has proved to be enormously important in these unprecedented times. We know that children are benefitting hugely from being connected, but we also know it’s even more important that we take steps to keep them safe and happy whilst online.
That’s why we welcome guidance which brings together practical and simple advice for families in this difficult period.”
See more articles and resources to help children stay safe online.