Nunavut RCMP offer tips to keep children and youth safe online

The Nunavut RCMP is reminding parents and guardians in the territory about the potential dangers of the internet at a time when children and youth are likely to be spending plenty of time online.

In a recent news release, the RCMP note that though the internet can be a valuable tool for learning, being entertained and connecting with friends and family, it can also be used “to lure, exploit and harm children and youth.”

The RCMP encourage parents and guardians to monitor their children’s internet use, particularly given they are likely to be spending more time than usual online during the COVID-19 pandemic.

To help keep children and youth safe online, the Nunavut RCMP have provided the following tips:

• Remind your child that images and videos can be saved or altered and used by others to embarrass or harm them in the future.
• Monitor your child’s online gaming activity and any messages they may be receiving. Online gaming platforms often have a private message option, “and some platforms, such as Roblox, have been identified as having sexual predators asking children to meet in person,” according to the news release.
• Be aware that apps such as TikTok can lead to the sharing of inappropriate videos with people around the world.
• Monitor your child’s use of social media applications. Facebook, Snapchat, Instagram, Kik and others can be used by predators to make contact with and share/request content from your child.
• Talk to your child about their social media applications and discuss the following:
  o Who they are allowed to communicate with
  o Who they are communicating with
  o What applications they are using
  o What they use these applications for
  o When they are allowed to use the applications (set limitations and time restraints)
• Ensure that your child’s social media privacy and security settings are the most secure they can be.
• Know their passwords and use parental controls where available on the various applications.
• Encourage your child to talk with you about anything they experience on the internet or through texting that makes them uncomfortable.
• Ensure your child knows they will not be in trouble and your biggest priority is their safety.
• Encourage your child to use any video or live-streaming applications in high traffic areas of your residence.
• Encourage your child not to friend adults on social media.

If you see, read or hear anything of a sexual nature from an adult who is in contact with your child online or through texting, the Nunavut RCMP ask you to contact the detachment in your community or you can report this to Cybertip.ca.

You can also find up-to-date resources and information here to help you keep your child safe from online predators and exploitation.