Fun fact: Over 4.5 billion people use the internet every day!
With so many people online, there are definitely some risks. That's why, on 11 February, we’re celebrating Safer Internet Day - a global event that brings together communities, schools, organisations and families from over 180 countries to raise awareness about online safety and work towards a safer internet.
In this article, we offer practical tips to help you and your loved ones navigate the digital world securely.
Working, learning, playing or just scrolling our socials, it’s an indisputable fact that the internet is firmly embedded in our everyday lives. In this world of opportunities lay a number of online risks.
Young people and other at-risk groups can be vulnerable to online threats like cyberbullying, scams and inappropriate content. It's important to understand these threats and take action to keep ourselves and our communities safe.
Being considerate and kind is as important online as it is offline. The same respect, empathy and kindness that creates strong and supportive real-life communities is essential for positive online communities. Online kindness fosters a positive vibe where safety and wellbeing are paramount and encourages more meaningful interactions.
Always remember: behind every screen is a real person with a real life and real values. Think before you post or comment and if you wouldn't say it in person, don't say it online. Compliment others, share positive content and stand up against negativity by reporting harmful behaviour.
Mindfulness promotes mental, emotional and physical health. Applying the principles of mindfulness while online helps create positive interactions so your online activities are enriching rather than draining.
Mindful use of digital platforms includes being selective about the content you see and share. Exposure to negative material is exhausting. Instead, focus on consuming and sharing positive and respectful content. Make your time online a mindful practice, as it maintains a healthy balance between online and offline activities and prevents digital overload. Prioritise online activities that you actually enjoy and don’t engage in anything that makes you stressed or unhappy.
Social media is ruled by algorithms that are trained to feed you positive and respectful content. This can be done by blocking and reporting negative content and liking, commenting and sharing content that aligns with your values.
Bullying, harassment and creating or sharing inappropriate content online is never okay. If you encounter this behaviour, it’s important to act against it.
Reporting abuse, helps protect you and others from online harm. The internet is a safer place for everyone when perpetrators are held accountable and harmful content is removed. Speaking up can also provide support to those who may be affected by online abuse.
Most digital platforms have reporting functions for inappropriate content. There may be a report button, help centre or feedback form where inappropriate behaviour can be addressed. Encourage others to report abuse too.
Serious instances of online harm such as cyber abuse, image-based abuse and illegal or restricted content should be reported to the eSafety Commissioner.
Open communication about safety risks with family, friends and colleagues is a great way to raise awareness and promote a culture of safety. If everyone is informed about online risks, threats can be identified early and addressed before they spiral out of control. Open dialogue fosters trust and encourages responsible internet use. Share your own experiences and listen to others' concerns. Make online safety a regular topic of discussion in your household or community.
There are loads of resources to help protect yourself, family and friends online. Sharing them creates practical solutions to common online safety issues.
Whether you’re concerned about online safety for your family, workplace or industry, the eSafety Commissioner’s Safer Internet Day hub contains a wide variety of resources to help keep you and your loved ones safe online. Explore the articles, posters and quizzes to assess your online safety practices.
For more tips on digital parenting as well as keeping your family safe and healthy online, visit our Family Hub.
As we recognise Safer Internet Day, we reaffirm our commitment to fostering a secure and positive online environment for all Australians
Through a range of initiatives and partnerships, we want to equip our customers - especially young people - with the tools and knowledge to navigate the digital world safely.
Our initiatives supporting Safer Internet Day, include:
Learn more about Safer Internet Day and how to get involved at the eSafety Commissioner website.
Safer Internet Day is a great opportunity to remind everyone about the importance of staying safe online.
Understanding the risks and taking simple steps, help us all make the internet a better place. Whether it's being kind, practicing mindfulness, speaking up against abuse, starting conversations about safety, or sharing useful resources, every little action counts.
Visit our very own Digital Family Hub to learn more about safer internet use for you and your family.
Everything you need to make online safety visible in your school, workplace, home or community.
Take me to the Safer Internet Day Hub
