The NSW Police Force is urging parents and carers to remind their children about online safety during the current COVID-19 restrictions and upcoming school holidays.
Commander of the Child Abuse and Sex Crimes Squad, Detective Superintendent John Kerlatec said that with internet usage increasing, it was a timely reminder for all parents to keep an eye on what their children were doing online.
“With the current restrictions in place and school holidays starting next week, we know more children will be spending time indoors at home, which often includes activities on devices and on the internet,” Det Supt Kerlatec said.
“We are encouraging parents to remain vigilant and monitor their usage, including what websites they are visiting, and who they may be speaking with,” he said.
“Not only should young people be very careful about providing personal information details to a person they only know in an online environment, they should never organise to meet, as doing so may place them at further risk of harm.”
Det Supt Kerlatec said it was important to speak to children about the dangers associated with online conversations.
“If they encounter something or someone they are not comfortable with, we encourage them to speak to a person they trust, who can then let our investigators know,” he said.
“If you or your child ever come across any concerning material online, we would encourage you to contact local police immediately.”
Det Supt Kerlatec said more information and educational packages for parents and children were available from ThinkUKnow, the multi-agency program designed to educate and promote cyber safety.
The ThinkUKnow website can be accessed at this PS News link with additional information also accessed on the eSafety Commissioner’s website via this link.
