Resources and Downloads
Staying Safe on the Internet
Jun 1, 2024
Enjoying the internet whilst staying safe online and on social media
Staying Safe Online and on Social Media
What You Need To Know:
The internet can be a brilliant place to learn, connect with others, and have fun—but it’s also important to stay safe while you’re online.
At ARC NI, we want you to enjoy using the internet and social media without worrying about people taking advantage of you. That’s why we’ve put together this easy-to-understand resources to help you stay safe, spot dangers, and know what to do if something feels wrong.
Why Online Safety Matters
Many people make friends or meet new people online. Most of the time, those friendships are kind, honest and supportive. However, not everyone online is who they say they are.
Some people might pretend to be your friend so they can:
- Ask for money
- Get personal information
- Say unkind or inappropriate things
- Try to meet up without your consent
This is called Online Mate Crime—a form of abuse that can be emotional, financial, or even sexual. It’s serious, and it’s never your fault if it happens.
Warning Signs to Look Out For
Be cautious if someone online:
- Asks for money, photos, or private information
- Makes you feel uncomfortable or confused
- Wants to meet up in person without telling anyone
- Pressures you to do things you don’t want to do
- Tells you to keep your friendship a secret
If any of these things happen, tell someone you trust right away.
Stay Connected. Stay Protected.
Top Tips to Stay Safe Online
Here are some practical steps to help protect yourself when using the internet or social media:
- Keep personal information private. Don’t share your full name, address, phone number, passwords, or bank details.
- Think before you share. Only post pictures or updates you’d be happy for others to see—once it’s online, it’s hard to take back.
- Check your privacy settings. Make sure only your friends can see your posts and photos.
- Never send money or gifts to someone you’ve only met online.
- Say no to pressure. If someone tries to rush you or push you into something, take a step back.
- Talk to someone you trust. If something feels odd, don’t keep it to yourself.
Making New Friends Online
Meeting new people online can feel exciting—but it’s important to stay smart.
If you’ve made a new friend online:
- Take your time. Real friendships grow slowly and honestly.
- Don’t meet up alone. Always take someone with you, and meet in a public place.
- Tell someone where you’re going. Let a trusted adult or friend know.
- Watch out for red flags. If something feels wrong, it probably is.
Stop It Now’s advice says it clearly: if you’re unsure about someone you’ve met online, stop and talk to someone you trust.
Support for Families and People with SEND
Online safety is a team effort. Families, carers and support workers can help by:
- Setting up parental controls and privacy settings
- Talking regularly about online experiences
- Helping spot risky behaviour or suspicious messages
- Creating an open, non-judgmental space for conversation
The NSPCC offers specific guidance for families of children and adults with learning disabilities and special educational needs (SEND).
If Something Doesn’t Feel Right, Speak Up
No matter how careful you are, things can still go wrong. If someone online makes you feel scared, confused, or uncomfortable:
- Tell someone you trust immediately.
- Block the person online and don’t reply.
- Report what’s happened to the platform or the police.
- Know that you are not to blame.
There are people who care and want to help.
Let’s Keep the Internet a Safe Place for Everyone
Using the internet should be fun, social, and safe. The internet can be a wonderful place, and we advocate for digital inclusion. By staying alert and knowing the signs, you can protect yourself and your friends from online mate crime and other dangers.
Remember, a real friend respects you, doesn’t ask for money, and never makes you feel uncomfortable.
You’ve got the right to feel safe, both in person and online.
- Easy Reads & Safety Guides
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- Staying safe on the internet and social media – easy read, SeeAbility
- How to stay safe when you use AI – easy read, Mencap
- What to do if you are being bullied on the internet: What is cyberbullying?– easy read, SeeAbility
- Staying Safe on Social Media and online – easy read, FPLD
- Keeping Safe Online – easy read, Care Management Group and CHANGE
- I have made a new friend online – easy read, Stop it now
- Online safety for families and children with SEND – NSPCC
- Social media online safety guides – Safety Centre
- How to make a social media account – SeeAbility
- Social media online safety guides – safety centre
- Toolkits
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- Staying connected toolkit – Seeability and the open university
- Working with children and young people with SEND (resources) – UK Safer Internet Centre
- Doing digital inclusion with the most excluded: People with learning disabilities
- Artificial intelligence safety tips for parents – NSPCC