‘Being Up’ on Internet Safety

Click here to view the Media Release in PDF format

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5 June 2009
‘Being Up’ on Internet Safety

5 June 2009 marks the beginning of National E-Security Awareness Week
to promote  an alertness of the need for online safety.

“Research suggests that approximately one in seven people between the
ages of 10 and 17 years of age experience a sexual solicitation or
approach whilst online”, stated the Hon. Nick Goiran MLC, “and considering
that children use the Internet more than any other age group, this just
highlights the need for parents, teachers, police and the community at large
to be extra vigilant and knowledgeable on Internet safety”.

Some Online Safety Tips for Children (Taken from Kids@Random) Include:

The need to ask for an adult’s permission before using the internet.
Never give out personal information, such as your name, address or
telephone number.
If a site asks you to type in your name or e-mail address, check with an
adult first.
If you receive an e-mail from someone you don’t know, tell an adult.
Never arrange to meet anyone you have talked to on the internet.
Get security software and update and patch it regularly.

“I would encourage people to utilise helpful resources available to them, log
onto www.staysmartonline.gov.au to find out ways to help keep children
and unsuspecting internet users from the predatorial risks that exist”, noted
Mr Goiran.

“I am hopeful that weeks like these will remind our Federal and State
governments to ensure adequate and user-friendly resources are available
to parents as they continue in their task of raising the next generation so
that they can in turn make an outstanding contribution to our country”.
If you would like more information on the Week you can contact the E-
security section at the Department of Broadband, Communications and the
Digital Economy on 02 6271 1112 or email onlinesecurity@dbcde.gov.au