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- Ελληνικά
As we approach the start of the new school year, it is important to highlight the fact that we live in an era where technology is a universal part of our lives, offering convenience but also posing many risks. It is necessary to raise awareness among parents and children about the importance of online safety. While adults may be aware of the risks involved in using technology, young people and children are often not fully aware of these risks and how they can protect themselves from them.
In addition to the positive features and useful services provided by the internet, there are several dangers hidden within it, including the following. [*]Data stealing: the deception of a user by getting him/her to give personal information to a "fake website" on the internet. [*]Misinformation[/B] by presenting various false or altered information on websites, possibly for the purpose of misleading. [*]Conversations with strangers: we should not give any personal information to a stranger. Many people give false information such as gender, name, age, and they intend to extract information from the user or take advantage of the user. [*]Intimidation, such as unsolicited messages containing promotional products, messages about fake games, fake services, pornographic material. [*]Alienation from the real world, which is a consequence of spending too many hours on the Internet and often leads to alienation from the real world and reduced communication with parents, friends, etc. [*]Seduction: mainly unknown persons exploit the element of anonymity on the internet to approach underage children with the aim of sexual harassment.
[*]Inappropriate content, which may include racist content, promotion of inappropriate behaviour, promotion of gambling, presentation of pornographic material, promotion of violence, etc. [*]Viruses and malicious software, which are installed on the computer, usually without the user's knowledge, and are activated either after a certain period of time or after a specific action.
Tips for parents. This includes his favourite websites, the services he uses, and his feelings while online.
Balanced approach
As parents, it's natural to worry about online risks, but for children the online world is exciting and fun, as it offers many opportunities. Have a chat with your child and ask them to share with you the things they are interested in online and discuss the risks they may face.
Use the support tools available
There are many tools that can help you control the devices used by your family. For example, knowing how to turn on and use parental control settings can help protect your child from unwanted content online.
Start by knowing how you can offer help
You may feel, at times, that young people are experts when it comes to the internet. However, remember that you are the experts on life issues. You are always there to support your child, but it is important to be aware of the ways in which you can ask for help. You can find more information on how you can help your child stay safe online, using features like social media privacy settings and understanding how to report apps, games and services
An intra-family agreement
The online world is an increasingly big part of everyday life in your home, so it's important that you deal with it as a family. Why not make an "agreement" with your family members on how to use the internet safely and positively?
Advice for children:
- Be careful with your personal information and data: Never give out personal information such as your full name, address, phone number or school to strangers online or even on social media "posts".
- Use strong and unique passwords: If you need to create accounts on different websites, use strong and different passwords for each account avoiding duplicating them.
- Do not disclose your passwords to anyone other than your parents: Passwords are personal and should be kept secret.
- Chat with people you know personally: Beware of chatting with strangers online. If you are going to chat with someone you don't know in the real world, let your parents know immediately before starting the conversation.
- Do not upload personal photos, videos and sites without permission: Before sharing any personal content online, discuss it with your parents.
- Beware of bullying (cyberbullying)
- : If you feel someone is insulting or bullying you online, tell your parents or a trusted adult immediately.
- Tell your parents: If you experience a concern online, don't hesitate to tell your parents. They can help you deal with any problems.
(EP/EHR)
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