Whatever age we are, we all have things that we need to learn, but we also have things that we can teach others. That’s certainly the case when it comes to being responsible online.
Who can we learn from, and who can we teach?
In general, today’s 16-24 year olds – plus or minus a couple of years – are far more savvy about technology than older family members, friends and acquaintances. As well as being more familiar with how to use apps, websites and social media, this generation also knows how to do it safely and securely and, equally importantly, responsibly. So, who better to ask
for advice than someone in ‘Generation Z’?
Older people, on the other hand, often have more life experience, giving them ability to know how to ‘do the right thing’, respect others and themselves, understand the good and bad consequences of their actions and take accountability. They can also be more cautious when it comes to trusting people and taking risks. Life skills, if you think about it, that are so important in our digital age and should be passed down to our youngsters by ‘millennials’ and older generations.
Digital responsibility is something that should become second nature, however young or old we are. It means protecting ourselves from harm such as fraud or abuse, and helping others to do the same. Knowing what to share online about ourselves and others, and what to keep private. Thinking about how the things we say and do can affect ourselves and others. And making the right online choices.
Digital responsibility is yours for the taking
Whichever generation you belong to, it’s easy to achieve digital
responsibility. Here are ten tips that will definitely help:
Get Safe Online is the UK’s leading source of information and advice on online safety and security, for the public and small businesses. It is a not-for-profit, public/private sector partnership backed by a number of
government departments, law enforcement agencies and leading organisations in internet security, banking and retail.
For more information and expert, easy-to-follow, impartial advice on
safeguarding yourself, your family, finances, devices and workplace,
visit www.getsafeonline.org
If you think you have been a victim of fraud, report it to Action Fraud at actionfraud.police.uk or by calling 0300 123 2040.