Brigidine College St Ives is taking the message of cyber safety seriously.

The College invited Brett Lee, a former Detective with the Queensland police in the field of Child Exploitation, to speak to girls and parents about some issues associated with internet safety and cyber bullying.

In his last five years of service, part of Brett’s job was to pretend to be a teenage girl in chat rooms and on social networking sites.  He was personally involved in the online investigation, arrest and prosecution of numerous offenders, who use the internet to prey on children. 

Brett’s message is that the internet is safe if it is used properly, but that everyone should be aware that there are dangers involved.  He also spoke to the girls about their responsibilities when using the net and their mobile phones.

Predators work hard to be the perfect internet friends.  Brett said that the common traits of those he interviewed and prosecuted were that they are well organised and persistent.  To be safe online when using social networking sites and chat rooms, be aware that no one can really be your friend if you have never met them in person, so treat them as the strangers that they are.  If you are asked something that you are uncomfortable with, leave the conversation immediately you do not have to answer.

Jessica Shlager of Year 9 commented, “You can never be too careful, because even by simply logging into the internet you are leaving behind a footprint and a simple comment can easily be used to track you down.”  Jess Corfield is now more aware of the possible dangers online: “Don’t post anything you wouldn’t want the whole world to see.”

The message for parents is to never allow internet access in a bedroom, and take an interest in the online activities of your family.  Young people can benefit from adult life skills, so share your knowledge with them and don’t assume that they know what is safe.   

For further information visit: www.iness.com.au