Today is International Safer Internet Day. The OPP is encouraging young people and their families to T.H.I.N.K b4 U Send to ensure their safety in the online world. One of the growing concerns associated with the Internet and mobile devices is cyberbullying. Cyberbullying happens when people use computers, cellphones or other devices to embarrass, humiliate, torment, threaten or harass someone else. With the rapid advances in technologies, cyberbullying is happening to more and more people every day.
Another increasing concern is the issue of exploitation. Also known as “sexting”, this behaviour is commonly defined as youth creating, sending or sharing sexual images and/or videos with peers via the Internet, social media sites and/or electronic devices. The OPP is encouraging everyone to apply the T.H.I.N.K test before posting or sending a cyber message or photo. If it doesn’t pass the T.H.I.N.K test you may be breaking the law.
Ask yourself:
T. is it true?
H. is it hurtful?
I. is it illegal?
N. is it necessary?
K. is it kind?
The OPP will be supporting cyber safety awareness by sharing messages and resources and encouraging followers to be part of the conversation on Twitter by using the hashtags #SID2016, #Up2Us and #OPPtips.
Useful links:
http://www.getcybersafe.gc.ca/cnt/bt/index-eng.aspx
http://www.pensezcybersecurite.gc.ca/cnt/bt/index-fra.aspx
https://www.protectchildren.ca/app/en/
http://www.thedoorthatsnotlocked.ca/