As we are aware, the Internet has become an irreplaceable platform for children and teenagers to facilitate learning, build communities and socialize through various informative and entertaining mediums. However, internet safety measures have become a major concern for parents and the nation itself to keep the young generation from unwanted content.
Telsim ensures the online safety of underage children and teenagers by safeguarding them from harmful and inappropriate online materials. Our detailed Online Safety Policy will walk you through guidelines, services and tools to keep your children and devices safe from the unhealthy side of the internet.
ENSURE ONLINE SAFETY FOR CHILDREN
As a parent, it is important to pay attention to how your children use the internet even if it is for studies or entertainment. Encourage or make them comfortable to use mobile phones or laptops in common areas like the living room. When creating accounts on gaming websites or social platforms, be cautious about sharing personal information.
It’s important to familiarize yourself with various online services like Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, Snapchat, messaging apps, and streaming platforms. Check the online activities of your children by checking their browsing history and search activities regularly. Consider using internet filters and security tools to restrict access to inappropriate content on specific websites, video chats, streaming services, or social networks.
Additionally, have frequent conversations with your kids about using the internet responsibly and addressing any concerns they may have. This can help both kids and parents stay informed and aware. Above all, it is important to remind them to tell you, a teacher, or another adult if they come across anything inappropriate online.
INTERNET SAFETY MEASURES FOR TEENAGERS
The boundaries of internet use gradually increase when children enter their teenage. They might use their smartphones and laptops in their own spaces, along with online purchases and quality time on social media.
At first, teenagers must be aware of sharing their personal information online, especially while interacting with strangers across the internet. Keep privacy settings on social media if necessary since teenagers are a target of internet bullying and inappropriate activities. Furthermore, download software, games and apps from trusted platforms only, which may cause malware or hacking if not cautious. Teenagers must also be familiar with communicating their online lives with adults or parents, which will help both to be familiar with the internet.
INTERNET SAFETY MEASURES FOR ADULTS
Internet safety is crucial for adults since cyber attacks have become common against them for financial advantages and identity theft. So, in this digital age, adults have to be familiar with online safety tools and safe browsing tactics to ensure a hassle-free internet experience.
If you are an internet user, make sure to update your software, mobile apps and devices. Multi-factor authentication can be an add-on protection to your internet accounts. Also, backup important files regularly and keep random words as your passwords. Keeping the same password for multiple accounts can affect your internet safety. Most importantly, stay alert for scams and spam. Triple-check the weblinks received from the unknown user before clicking and be cautious when you reply to unknown numbers even if they introduce them as close friends or relatives.
For more information on keeping your family safe online, visit the Office of the eSafety Commissioner website.
INTERNET FILTERS FOR FAMILY USE
Internet filters enable users to restrict or limit access to selected content or websites online.
CommAlliance’s Family Filter Program offers a detailed internet filter service that will match the specific internet requirements of a family. To attain the Family Friendly Filter Status as well as accreditations, providers must keep strict testing to prove they meet criteria aimed at safeguarding families.
These filters effectively block websites listed on the eSafety Commissioner’s Prohibited URL Filter (PUF) list and are suitable for individuals aged 18 and above.
The Office of the eSafety Commissioner employs a classification system with four levels for certified filters, which are;
- Class 1: Recommended for children aged 15 and above.
- Class 2: Recommended for children aged between 10 and 15.
- Class 3: Recommended for children under 10 years old.
Further information including a list of accredited filter providers, can be found on the CommsAlliance Family Friendly Filter website.
COMPLAINTS
Complaints about restricted or illegal content can be reported online to the Office of the eSafety Commissioner or directly to the content provider. If online submission is not feasible, Australian residents may email online@esafety.gov.au to file a complaint. In the email, include the specific URL details and reasons for advocating content prohibition.
To report criminal activities, visit Crime Stoppers online or dial 1800 333 000. Reports can be made anonymously.
ESAFETY COMMISSIONER
eSafety Commissioner is designated to give safety measures to Australians from online harms and develop a healthy internet community where anyone can access the internet in a positive environment. Through research and expert techniques, eSafety takes a multi-faceted approach to address online safety issues. This approach is guided by three key principles:
- Prevention: eSafety employs research, educational initiatives, and awareness campaigns to prevent online harms from occurring.
- Protection: Under the Online Safety Act, eSafety implements regulatory frameworks and conducts investigations to ensure the protection of online users.
- Proactive and Systemic Change: eSafety stays abreast of technological advancements, collaborates with industry to enhance user safety standards, and extends its influence globally to effect meaningful change.
For more information on staying safe online, Visit the Office of the eSafety Commissioner website.
BROADBAND EDUCATION INFORMATION
For more information about broadband technologies and the factors that can influence the performance of your broadband service, please visit http://www.commsalliance.com.au/BEP .
