Kids

Top tips

• Make sure your computer is secure—follow the advice in the Secure your computer section of this website.
• Set strong passwords, particularly for important online accounts and change them regularly—consider making a diary entry to remind yourself.
• Stop and think before you share any personal or financial information—about you, your friends or family. Don’t disclose identity information (drivers licence, Medicare No, birth date, address) through email or online unless you have initiated the contact and you know the other person involved.
• Don't give your email address out without needing to. Think about why you are providing it, what the benefit is for you and whether it will mean you are sent emails you don’t want.
• Be very suspicious of emails from people you don’t know, particularly if they promise you money, good health or a solution to all your problems. The same applies for websites. Remember, anything that looks too good to be true usually is.
• Limit the amount and type of identity information you post on social networking sites. Don’t put sensitive, private or confidential information on your public profile.
• When shopping online use a secure payment method such as PayPal, BPay, or your credit card. Avoid money transfers and direct debit, as these can be open to abuse. Never send your bank or credit card details via email.
• When using a public computer, don’t submit or access any sensitive information online. Public computers may have a keystroke logger installed which can capture your password, credit card number and bank details.

Resources and Fun stuff

The Cybersmart website is produced and hosted by The Australian Communications and Media Authority (the ACMA) and includes information, tips and resources specifically for kids.

The ThinkUKnow website provides information and resources to help educate and raise awareness amongst parents, carers and teachers about how to help children stay safe online.

Fun stuff