Technology is a big part of our everyday lives – it is used for socialising, working, studying, banking, shopping, and more.
Online safety is becoming an increasing issue, including crimes such as: cyber-bullying, online sexual harassment, hate crime, webcam blackmail, and scams. Enabling Services and the Students’ Union have compiled a list of tips to maintain your online safety.
Online safety tips
- Make your online profiles private.
- Minimise the amount of your personal information that is shared online.
- Think before you post: what goes online stays online.
- Only allow people that you know to follow or friend you.
- Remember that, through no fault of your own, intimate images can be shared, and webcam calls can be filmed without your knowledge.
- Ensure that your computer and mobile devices have up-to-date internet security software installed and turned on.
- If you are using a shared or public computer, make sure to log out of your account and webpages you have been using.
For more information, visit iSolutions’ Keeping Safe Online page.
Dealing with online problems
- Take screenshots of the text and keep any emails so that you have a record even if the posts are removed.
- Do not respond to any bullying, threats, or demands.
- Block the online profile of the aggressor; seeing the content will negatively affect your wellbeing.
- Report the offensive content to the website administrator and to SUSU’s online reporting tool.
- Visit the Student Support Drop-in to talk through support and practical steps.
- Visit the Revenge Porn Helpline, as they can assist with taking down shared intimate images or videos.
- If the aggressor is a student at the University, consider contacting the Harassment Contacts, the Mediation Team, or the Discipline Team.
- Visit SUSU Advice Centre if you need help with academic, housing or financial issues related to online behaviours.
- If you have been a victim of a crime, contact Victim Support for free and confidential support.
Visit Get Safe Online for more information.
Digital Detox
Why not unplug for the day and join in with the National Day of Unplugging; a 24 hour global respite from technology. It highlights the value of disconnecting from digital devices to connect with ourselves, loved ones and communities in real time.
Join the national day of unplugging 2020 from sundown to sundown, March 6 – 7.
