With Christmas around the corner, Ipswich Police are urging parents to prioritise their children’s online safety as social media activity spikes during the holiday season.
Senior Constable Chantelle Dowell highlighted the importance of parental controls, saying, “Parental supervision tools can help monitor and limit what your child sees and does online. With many social media platforms offering built-in safety features, now is the perfect time to ensure your child’s online activities are safe and secure.”
Key Parental Controls
Parental control tools can:
- Block access to certain websites or apps.
- Filter inappropriate content.
- Restrict communication with unknown users.
- Set time limits for online activity.
Popular platforms such as Facebook, Instagram, and Snapchat provide supervision tools via their settings or family centers. TikTok also features safeguards for users under 18, including daily screen limits, restricted live-streaming capabilities, and private account settings for younger teens.
Tips for Parents
Constable Dowell advised parents to:
- Set strong passwords that do not reveal personal details like age or location.
- Regularly review account settings with their children.
- Foster open dialogue about online activity and set clear social media boundaries.
“No parental control tool is perfect,” Dowell said. “Building strong online safety habits and open communication with your child is equally essential.”
Education and Support
Ipswich Police have partnered with local schools through the Think You Know program, educating students about online safety. Parents interested in arranging a presentation for 2025 can contact their child’s school.
For further information, visit the eSafety Guide at esafety.gov.au. To report child abuse material or inappropriate content, use the same website’s reporting tools.
“Stay involved and engaged with your child’s online world,” Dowell urged. “Together, we can ensure their safety during the festive season and beyond.”
For more Crime Watch tips keep listening to West Bremer radio.
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