Online Safety Research Paper

When we think of the types of abuse it is easier to imagine how this may happen in the real world. There are now significant risks of sexual and emotional abuse for children in the “Digital world”. This new term, ‘e-safety’, is concerned with the safeguarding of children and young people in the digital world and ensuring that they feel safe when accessing new technology.

Looking back, technology has always been a part of our culture. Over time it has just looked differently and it has changed in many ways. One of the main technological features, the Internet, or what it originally was referred to, the World Wide Web, has made the most significant advances. In 1992, researchers from the University of Illinois created a browser called Mosaic. It allowed a simple way to search the web. Once word got out Congress allowed for companies to use it for commercial use and its popularity just spread. Websites, blogs, business and social media have taken us over by storm. The transformation of digital television, laptops, and cell phones have also completely defined our culture and how we integrate into society. The internet has brought all cultural, socioeconomic and educational and business groups together, but not without a price to many.

Though a wonderful educational and social resource, the internet poses a multitude of dangers of its own. In this day and age most homes have the internet and even cafes and shops offer wifi services so people can access the internet from pretty much anywhere and with games consoles, mobile phones and a multitude of other devices having internet capabilities you do not need to own a computer or laptop now to be able to access the world wide web. Unfortunately peadophiles and other dangerous and unsavoury characters have cottoned on to the power of the internet and use it for their own vile ends.

2008). Unfortunately, majority of youths who are targeted by the online predators and accept invitations to meet in person tend to acknowledge that they will likely be engage in sexual relationship(Wolak et al, 2008). Thus, these factors illustrates that children in Canada require great cares and protections from the online predators.

A study done by BMC Public Health showed that children start to show interest toward the Internet during their late years in elementary and middle school. This, therefore, helps spur the idea of teaching children and young adult on how to use the Internet safely and to start teaching at a younger age now. BMC and the British Journal both agree that medical professionals and teachers are not informed enough about the dangers that the Internet holds to be able to help and “treat” the children who struggle with cyberbullying. They believe that every individual should be aware of the issues that are often caused by social media and the Internet so that others can protect themselves and help others before they are blackmailed. Teaching Internet safety is essential with the constantly growing social networks and advancing technology in today’s society where almost everything is computer based and anyone can see

Because no-one can fully remove the bad stuff from the internet and make it completely safe, steps are put in place to ensure that children and young people are somewhat safe whilst browsing:

The Internet as we know it today is a very diverse place, almost like a virtual library. You have your study materials, your game section, just random fun things, bad medical advice and tons of other tips and tricks. Although the internet is a great place for finding information the internet can also be a very dangerous encapturing place. Some people believe that the world has become anti-social because of kids and teens “constantly” being on the internet.

The internet is much like the outside world but it is also very different.For example on the internet a random teenager can talk to a grown man or woman across the world from them and gain perspective on that side of the world and other useful skills,but what if that man or woman is a dangerous person and is wanting to exploit or use the teenager,that is what parents are afraid of and although it is a very possible thing to happen if the child is old enough they should be able to at least suspect something and learn from that experience on not to trust strangers.

Nowadays with the use of technology child predators lurk around the internet looking for his or her next victim. An online child predator is anyone seeking out children or teens to exploit them for sexual abuse. Online child predators can either be male or female, but most them are male. The profile of an online child predator is complex, because the predators come from all different backgrounds.

"The internet is always a willing listener, at any time of day or night." says Rachel Drentzin. There are multiple internet dangers. There are many reasons why people should be careful wile using social media. First, never allow anyone to continually cyberbully you. Secondly, never share too much information over social media. Finally, don't fall into the trap in which is sexual predators. If you follow these rules, you will be a safe social media user.

Also, here are some ways to prevent any chance of you being affected by an online predator.

The internet technology is allowing pedophiles to exchange information about each other and their victims in a very organized manner. They find newer ways to meet other people and educate them on how to attract and exploit children. There are online forums where they discuss their past experiences and give safety tips on how to avoid trouble from parents as well as allow the abuse to remain hidden. Their community is rapidly increasing as well their support from fellow pedophiles. They feel safer now and are openly admitting their desire for child sex in their nicknames online. Pedophiles are even creating support websites for others to visit. It seems like sexual predators are trying to eliminate the term predator from their title and get more positive attention

With the increase in technology in schools and at home, teacher need to be more aware and have more knowledge on cyber safety. Cyber safety includes many elements including; bullying, online predatory action and identity theft. With the rise of technology online bullying is becoming an ever-growing problem. This is because it not only allows for a student to be bullied at school, but can also be taken home as well. Online bullying can have many negative effects including; depression, anxiety and fear. Teachers need to be prepared on how to effectively deal with this. Some strategies for teachers to put in place may include; sharing real life examples of people who have been affected by cyber bullying, knowing how students can use the

As with everything in life, you are responsible for your actions… from looking both ways before crossing the street, to locking the door to your home at night, so also it is a good idea to take precautions when dealing with strangers online and have a crime prevention strategy in place before you list an item or agree to buy an item through an online classified ad. Remain cautious, use your best judgement and common sense when online, just as you would when you are offline in your day-to-day life.

Being safe on the web should be the number one priority for every internet user. Below are helpful tips which will help make your online interactions a bit safer. Note that the ultimate safety lies in using common sense in your online activities.