What is E-Safety?
E-safety is the safe and responsible use of technology. It is important for everyone, but especially for young people, who are more likely to use technology and may be more vulnerable to online risks.
What are the risks of using technology?
There are a number of risks associated with using technology, including:
- Cyberbullying: Bullying that takes place online or through text messages.
- Online abuse: Any type of abuse that takes place online, including sexual harassment, threats, and intimidation.
- Inappropriate content: This could include pornography, violence, or hate speech.
- Online scams: Attempts to trick people into giving away personal information or money online.
- Addiction: Spending too much time using technology can lead to addiction, which can have a negative impact on mental and physical health.
What is Smoothwall filtering and monitoring?
Smoothwall filtering and monitoring is a software solution that helps schools to keep their students safe online. It works by filtering out inappropriate content and monitoring students’ online activity for signs of risk whilst your daughter is at School.
How does Smoothwall filtering work?
Smoothwall filtering works by using a database of known harmful websites and content to block students from accessing them. The database is updated regularly to ensure that it is always up-to-date with the latest threats.
How does Smoothwall monitoring work?
Smoothwall monitoring works by tracking students’ online activity and looking for signs of risk. This could include things like searching for inappropriate content, visiting unsafe websites, or communicating with strangers. If Smoothwall detects any signs of risk, it will alert the school’s safeguarding team.
How can students stay safe online?
There are a number of things that students can do to stay safe online, including:
- Be careful who you share personal information with. Never give out your name, address, phone number, or email address to someone you don’t know and trust.
- Be careful about what you post online. Once you post something online, it is very difficult to remove it completely.
- Be aware of the risks of cyberbullying and online abuse. If you are being bullied or abused online, tell a trusted adult.
- Use strong passwords and keep them safe. Don’t share your passwords with anyone else.
- Take breaks from using technology. It is important to spend time offline doing other things, such as spending time with friends and family, exercising, and getting enough sleep.
What can parents do to help keep their children safe online?
There are a number of things that parents can do to help keep their children safe online, including:
- Talk to your children about E-safety. Make sure they understand the risks of using technology and how to stay safe online.
- Set rules and limits on their technology use. Decide how much time they can spend using technology and what websites they can visit.
- Monitor their online activity. You can use software to monitor their online activity or simply check their browsing history regularly.
- Be a good role model. Show your children how to use technology safely and responsibly.
Smoothwall filtering and monitoring is a valuable tool that can help schools to keep their students safe online. However, it is important to remember that E-safety is everyone’s responsibility. Parents and students also need to play their role in staying safe online.
Additional information for secondary school students
Here are some additional tips for secondary school students on how to stay safe online:
- Be careful about what information you share in online chats and forums.
- Be wary of clicking on links in emails or messages from people you don’t know.
- Be careful about meeting people you meet online in person.
- Be aware of the risks of sexting.
- If you see something online that makes you feel uncomfortable or unsafe, tell a trusted adult.
Smoothwall filtering and monitoring is a valuable tool that can help to keep you safe online. However, it is important to remember that you also need to be careful about how you use technology.