Online Safety March

Virtual Private Network

A Virtual Private Network (VPN) helps make your connection between a device and the internet more secure and can help protect personal information and add privacy. However, whilst a VPN has benefits, it is important that you are aware that if your child is using a VPN, they may be able to get round Wi-Fi restrictions, access blocked or restricted websites and bypass parental controls. It may also mean that their browsing history is hidden.
The NSPCC provides a helpful overview of VPNs, plus top tips and conversation starters here:

VPNs and online safety: a guide for parents and carers | NSPCC

Social Media Algorithms

What is an Algorithm?

Algorithms influence what we see on social media platforms and predict what type of content we are most likely to interact with, thereby keeping us online for longer. The algorithm uses information such as who you follow, what you have searched for and what you have watched, liked or shared to determine what it thinks most interests you. It will then show you this content more, for example, in the explore tab on Instagram.

What do I need to know?
Whilst there are benefits to algorithms, for example it means we tend to see content that does interest us, unfortunately there are negatives as well. They can lead to increased screentime as we continue to see things that interest us. Secondly, it can lead to users being shown large amounts of inappropriate content which can for example, exacerbate negative body image or heighten access to misogyny content. It can also lead to ‘echo chambers’ where you are only seeing content that relates to your opinion rather than seeing a balanced viewpoint.

Further information
• https://cybersmarties.com/behind-the-screen-how-algorithms-shape-what-kids-see-online/

• The BBC discuss algorithms in this article about doomscrolling:
https://www.bbc.co.uk/bitesize/articles/zwnk3qt

New government campaign: Is your child influenced by toxic content?

The Government have launched a new campaign providing guidance to parents on safety settings, conversation prompts and advice for tackling misinformation and harmful content. It also includes a quiz to help you and your child spot misleading or unreliable information online.

You can find out more here:
https://www.gov.uk/government/news/is-your-child-influenced-by-toxic-content-new-government-campaign-supports-parents-to-talk-about-harmful-online-content