Malware?

Potentially Hurtful and Harmful Malware is malicious software (such as viruses and trojans) that can be unknowingly downloaded by visiting fake websites or installing fake apps from an app store (malware disguised as a popular game or app).  Downloading and installing software from unofficial sources (such as third party app stores) can increase the risk […]

Phishing and scams?

Potentially Hurtful and Harmful The purpose of scams and malware is to trick people into handing over personal data, money or property or to steal it without their knowledge. With internet use rising year on year, online fraud and identity theft are forms of cybercrime that continue to grow. They can take a variety of […]

Illegal downloading?

Potentially Hurtful and Harmful Illegal downloading (also known as piracy) is when a user downloads a copy of paid content for free without permission from the owner. This includes music, TV shows, movies, video games, audiobooks, ebooks and sports broadcasts. Streaming paid content for free (by watching it on a video sharing site) is often […]

Content that promotes hurtful/harmful belief and behaviour?

Potentially Hurtful and Harmful While not always upsetting or illegal, there is content online that may promote beliefs that could lead to hurt or harm, either for a child or for other groups or individuals. Examples of content promoting hurtful/harmful beliefs include hate speech, discrimination and extreme views/ideologies. These may be expressed as opinions on […]

Content that may distress?

Potentially Hurtful and Harmful As social networks and other online services cater for a wide range of audiences, ages and communities around the world, it is always likely that content will appear online that may upset others. What people find upsetting or offensive can vary greatly but there are some common types of content that […]

Online bullying?

Potentially Hurtful and Harmful Online bullying can take many forms. It can be unkind or hurtful messages shared in a game or app, nasty comments responding to another person’s social media post or social media content created or shared by someone to harass, upset or damage the reputation of someone. Impersonating someone online can also […]

Inappropriate and unacceptable behaviour?

Potentially Hurtful and Harmful While many online users behave positively and respectfully, there are inappropriate behaviours that a child may encounter such as swearing or being abusive, bullying, harassing behaviour, and sharing content designed to upset others. Some behaviours online may also break the law or have the potential to be illegal – these include […]