Keeping a teenager safe online
For teenagers, the internet is a place to learn and make friends. Learn simple safety rules together, and let them know they can come to you with any problem.
What you may notice
- After getting a message, your teenager suddenly seems sad, scared or uneasy.
- They quickly hide the screen or don't want to talk about a 'new online friend'.
- Someone online gives them gifts, money or a lot of attention and asks them to keep it secret from you.
- They suddenly ask for money and won't say what it's for.
- They avoid school, friends and even their own phone, and their sleep or appetite changes.
The rest of this guide is for subscribers
Possible reasons, step-by-step actions, what to avoid, how to use your child's strengths, and when to see a specialist.