A CAMPAIGN to keep users safe on the internet was supported by Durham Constabulary on February 6th promoting the safe and positive use of digital technology especially among children and young people.

Officers from Durham Constabulary will be visiting Park View School and Roseberry Primary School in Chester-le-Street to speak to children about what they share online and how to keep safe.

Inspector Karen Naunton from the Safeguarding Unit said: “The internet is one of the greatest inventions of the 20th century – offering you an encyclopaedia of information at the click of your fingertips, but concerns about safety, especially for children, persist.

“With an ever increasing market of online applications and live streaming opportunities there is also an ever increasing opportunity for criminals to target potential victims through these channels, whether for harassment, abuse or fraud.

“Children are at risk of sharing too much information about themselves online. The safeguarding of young people is a priority and we are encouraging everyone to play their part in building a better internet.”

As well as visiting schools, Durham Constabulary will be giving tips about staying safe online throughout the day. They will be hosting a Q&A session and sharing an image on their social media channels, asking the public to share it in a bid to show youngsters how far a post can go.

Insp Naunton continued: “Our children might be more adept with technology than their parents, but they need to protect themselves as there are potential pitfalls and vulnerabilities the internet can create.

“We want youngsters to remember that behind every screen is a real person. Being kind and positive online is just as important as being kind and positive face-to-face.

“We want to inspire a national conversation about using technology responsibly, respectfully, critically and creatively. Use the hashtag #SID2018 to engage in conversation with us.”

Find out more about the global campaign for Safer Internet Day at www.saferinternetday.org and follow Durham Constabulary on Facebook and Twitter @DurhamPolice