You may be new to being online – maybe you just got your first mobile phone, have started borrowing your older sister's or you’ve recently set up a social media account. There is a whole world out there on the internet - but just like in the real world, exploring it can bring with it both benefits and dangers.

The internet offers all kinds of great things - the opportunity to meet new friends or connect with old ones on Facebook, find information through Google, get homework help or explore job opportunities on job sites - but in order to stay safe online, it’s important that you’re aware of the dangers that you may face when you are online, and you know how to handle them

Some risks you could face online include:

cyberbullying - like mean, threatening or hurtful posts, comments or messages

exposure to inappropriate materials - like pornography or violence

online predators - in other words, adults who use the internet to try and connect with children or teen girls just like you. Their intention may be to harm, abuse or have an inappropriate personal relationship with you. sharing too much personal or private information, which can put you, your friends and family in danger.

We want you to be as safe as possible when using the Internet, whenever and wherever you’re using it. Here are some tips for staying safe online:

Be careful who you chat to If somebody you don't know adds you as a friend, ignore them and delete their request. Don't share personal information like your address or phone number with somebody you don't know.

Be careful what you share online When you choose a profile picture for a social networking website like Facebook, avoid photos that give information about where you live

Think about what should be shared in public and what shouldn't be kept private

Check your location settings – some sites, apps, and devices let you share your location with other users. Turning off location settings can help protect your privacy

Don’t post your contact details, for example, your address or phone number online

Do not open links or install applications that pop-up on your screen that you are unsure of as they might lead to inappropriate materials

Never reveal your passwords and when using someone else's phone to access your Facebook or Instagram account, always make sure you log out