Safer Internet Day: Protecting Young People from Online Scams

Tuesday 11th February is Safer Internet Day, and this year’s theme focuses on online scams and how young people can protect themselves. With scams becoming more sophisticated, from financial fraud to online sextortion, it’s more important than ever to understand how to stay safe in the digital world.

The younger generation has never known life without the internet—it’s part of their daily routine. While it provides endless opportunities for learning, socialising, and entertainment, it also comes with risks. Scammers use social media, messaging apps, and gaming platforms to target young people, using tactics such as:

• Phishing scams: Fake email or messages tricking users into revealing personal details.
• Online sextortion: Scammers manipulating individuals into sharing personal images and then demanding money.
• Fake job offers & subscription traps: Promising easy money or ‘free trials’ that lead to hidden charges.
• AI & deepfake scams: The rise of artificial intelligence means scammers can create realistic fake content to deceive people.

How to Stay Safe Online

Open conversations about online safety

Talking openly with children and young people about their online activity is key to keeping them safe. Encourage them to ask for help if something doesn’t feel right and remind them never to share personal information with strangers.

Use privacy settings and parental controls

Technology moves fast, but parental controls and privacy settings can help manage online activity:

• Device settings: Manage screen time, location sharing, and in-app purchases.
• App/game settings: Set accounts to private and control who they interact with.
• Network settings: Prevent access to inappropriate websites or downloads by adjusting settings through your mobile or broadband provider.

Know where to get help

If you or someone you know has been affected by an online scam, support is available:

• Action Fraud – Report scams
• CEOP – Support for online exploitation
• NSPCC & Childline – Advice for parents & young people 

The Future of Online Scams

With technology evolving, scammers are finding new ways to deceive people. This Safer Internet Day, young people have the opportunity to share their experiences and ideas on tackling scams, while organisations, tech companies, and the government work towards better online safety regulations.

For more information about Safer Internet Day 2024, visit the UK Safer Internet Centre: https://saferinternet.org.uk/safer-internet-day

Alternatively, you can speak to our team about cybersecurity and staying safe online by calling Sutcliffe & Co. on 01905 21681.

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