Stay Connected, Stay Safe

Netsafe has launched the ‘Stay Connected, Stay Safe’ education campaign to help people have better online experiences during lockdown.  #stayconnectedstaysafe encourages people to use and engage with all the different types of technology on offer to help them stay connected and provides tips and advice about how to do it safely. Martin Cocker, Netsafe CEO,…

Image that shows Netsafe's icon, wifi symbol with a loveheart and map of NZ

Netsafe has launched the ‘Stay Connected, Stay Safe’ education campaign to help people have better online experiences during lockdown.  #stayconnectedstaysafe encourages people to use and engage with all the different types of technology on offer to help them stay connected and provides tips and advice about how to do it safely.

Martin Cocker, Netsafe CEO, says the internet and devices will play an important part in keeping everyone connected, and this campaign aims to promote the opportunities while helping people manage the risks.

“Most people will be relying on internet connected devices to stay informed, entertained and connected in ways they’ve never had to do before.  Now is a great time to explore the different technological options available that make life more convenient and enjoyable, but it would be naive to ignore the risks that will bring.

The rapid adoption of technology, increased stress and physical separation from communities are combining to create a perfect storm for trouble online. We are already seeing that cyber criminals are using this opportunity to groom, defraud and exploit people.”

Netsafe is encouraging people to be especially vigilant, and support whānau and friends who might need a little bit of help connecting online.

Cocker says, “We’re asking people to spread the #stayconnectedstaysafe message as some apps and platforms will present risks first-time users don’t necessarily understand. Talk to your loved ones and equip them with the skills required to use these tools safely so they can have a positive experience and become a part of your digital bubble.”

HOW CAN YOU GET INVOLVED

We’re encouraging the community to put their collective brains together – virtually! – and share their online safety hacks and warm fuzzy internet stories so we can all be a little more digitally savvy and make the most of what the internet has to offer us in lockdown.

Ring up your nan and teach her all about FaceTime. Chat with your friends about the COVID-19 misinformation online. Start a conversation with your tamariki about accepting friend requests online and what to do if you feel uncomfortable talking to someone online.

Kōrero at your virtual exercise class about what you’ve learnt about Zoombombing. Talk to your friends about consent and the etiquette around sharing others’ private information or pictures online.

We’re asking for your help to spread the #stayconnectedstaysafe message to ensure people have better online experiences. Post your advice for staying safe online using #stayconnectedstaysafe, share Netsafe’s advice (or someone else’s) with your digital bubble and continue to promote the benefits and fun technology offers in a time like this.

Resources to help you spread the message

NETSAFE’S TIPS TO #stayconnectedstaysafe

  1. Do a stocktake: Assess how many devices in your house connect to the internet to understand where the risks are and start to mitigate them.
  2. Assess new technology: Investigate new apps or platforms by checking out T&Cs, reviews and minimum age requirements before using them.
  3. Secure your virtual house. Use strong passwords, update your software and use two- factor authentication where possible.
  4. Share your experience: Talk to your friends and family about the technologies you use and let them know the tips and tricks you use to eliminate risk.
  5. Combat misinformation: Guide people to official information sources like covid19.govt.nz to stop the spread of fake news.
  6. See something, say something: If you see suspicious or criminal activity online, report it. If you don’t know where to report, Netsafe can help.
  7. Practice safe clicking: COVID-19 is being used as a lure so be careful clicking on links, attachments or ads from unknown sources as they might be hiding malware.
  8. Protect your info: Criminals are harvesting personal information. Stop and think carefully about the details you’re disclosing or whether they need to entered online.
  9. Have fun: Explore the different technologies available to help you connect, learn, stay informed and participate in Aotearoa’s new virtual society.
  10. Help others: Share your online safety tips and experiences using #stayconnectedstaysafe to help others.

As people rely more on virtual connections, Netsafe will keep sharing tips to help you #stayconnectedstaysafe. If there’s any topic that you’d like to know more about or ideas on how to contribute, please email us.  Netsafe provides free support, advice and education – whether it’s scams, online bullying or advice on digital parenting, we’re here to help New Zealand.

CONTACT NETSAFE

If you’re concerned about the immediate safety of you or someone else, please call 111. If you want help or expert incident advice, you can contact us. Our service is free, non-judgemental and available seven days a week.

COMBATING CHILD SEXUAL EXPLOITATION

To report objectionable material, such as online child sexual exploitation and abuse, visit the Department of Internal Affairs website or the Police website. If you or someone else is in immediate danger, please call 111.

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