Let's make the internet a safer place...

Today on Safer Internet Day, nbn is proud to support the?eSafety Commissioner?and encourage everyone to consider and practice this year’s theme of ‘Play It Fair Online’.??

We’ve all known someone who has been abused online. Be it bullying, trolling, discrimination, social engineering or being scammed…. to name but a few.?

Safer Internet Day is a timely reminder for all to use the internet safely and make sure their interactions with other users are respectful. We are supporting the eSafety Commissioner in asking everyone at work, home and in the community, to be safer, respectful and kinder to each other, both online and off.?

eSafety is the world's first government agency solely committed to keeping citizens safer online and the Commissioner plays an important role in helping to safeguard those at risk from online harms and to promote safer, more positive online experiences.?

I truly believe that technology can make our lives easier in so many ways and has even more so during the pandemic. With everything from QR codes and online entertainment, to working and schooling from home, it is important to be aware of online safety and how we might interact with others.??

As internet users, we can also follow some simple tips to contribute to a safe environment online for everyone:?

• Think before you post?– consider whether your actions are harmful to yourself or to others?
• Update your security and privacy settings?– take a moment to check the privacy settings on your family’s devices and apps.?
• Take charge of your location settings?– we all need them for maps or ordering dinner but remember to turn location off when you are not using it as it can be used to track you.?
• Practice safe browsing?– don’t open suspicious links or open unsolicited emails. Keep informed on current cyber threats.??
• Raise your voice about online abuse?– report it to the relevant platforms, the eSafety commissioner or the Police.?Instagram, Facebook, YouTube and other social media sites provide community rules to follow. If you or someone you know sees something that is not respectful, you can anonymously make a report and ask the site to remove it.?

Online safety is a community problem, but also a community solution. Don’t underestimate the power of the bystander.?

Come one Australia, play it fair online, and off.?

You can learn more about eSafety and access resources to help make your online experience safer, by visiting?https://www.esafety.gov.au/?