Online abuse is any type of abuse that happens on the internet or through mobile networks. This includes harmful social media interactions, exposure to harmful content, grooming or exploitation, personal conduct that increases the risk of harm, and harmful commerce. Children are especially vulnerable to online abuse because they may have mobile devices with them all the time and may not know how to protect themselves. There is also a danger from the dark web, which is a part of the internet that can be accessed anonymously and has a lot of dangerous or illegal content. It is essential to be aware of the risks of online abuse and to help children stay safe while using the internet.
Online abuse extends beyond direct harassment or trolling. It includes exposure to harmful content such as violence, pornography and misinformation; harmful interactions like grooming, coercion, and exploitation; risky online behaviours that increase vulnerability, including the sharing of intimate images; cybercrime such as hacking and creating and deploying malicious software with the purpose of disrupting computer systems, and commercial risks linked to gaming, gambling, and inappropriate advertising. Together, these risks create an environment where young people are routinely exposed to online predators, scams, and cyberbullying. Criminals deliberately exploit social media, gaming platforms, and messaging apps, using deception, trust-building, and manipulation to access, influence, and harm children.
The Dark Web (accessed via The Onion Router) offers anonymity and, therefore, can be a lifeline for people living inside repressive regimes. Still, it also offers access to material relating to extremist ideology, criminal gangs, drugs, and weapons and can be an extremely dangerous place for children.
It is helpful to remember that many children have mobile devices available 24/7, online abuse follows the child everywhere, and there can sometimes be no escape, even through the night.
The signs that a child may be being abused online are not always obvious but there are some you can look out for, for example, a child might begin spending more or less time than usual online or on their phone, become secretive about what they are doing or who they are talking to online, hide computer screens or take phone calls in rooms away from other people. Other signs may include engaging less with family and usual friends, sudden personality changes or severe mood swings, or having new things like phones or clothes that they cannot explain.
Suggested Reading: Lists of Most Dangerous Apps For Children
https://safegliaconsult.com/2025/01/31/online-safety-information-every-parent-must-know/
https://oursafetycentre.co.uk/safetycards/
We must educate children, parents, and schools on online/digital resilience. Some ways to help prevent victimization include encouraging strong privacy settings, open conversations, and critical thinking. The internet evolves rapidly, so staying informed and proactive is key to protecting young users. If you see or hear about this, it is important to seek support for the child before they are drawn into serious criminal activity.
What do you think? Does the internet pose a valid safeguarding concern or not?
6 Comments
Technology · April 25, 2025 at 12:31 am
Online abuse is a serious issue that affects many children who are constantly connected to the internet. It’s alarming how predators exploit social media and gaming platforms to target vulnerable young people. Educating children and parents about digital resilience is crucial to combat this growing problem. Implementing strong privacy settings and fostering open communication can help reduce the risks. What steps can schools take to better protect students from online threats?
Safeglia · May 12, 2025 at 2:50 pm
Schools can protect students online by implementing clear policies, educating pupils and parents on online safety. All of which we can help with. Feel free to refer us to a school.
Накрутка авито · April 27, 2025 at 3:13 pm
Online abuse is a serious issue that affects many people, especially children who are often unaware of the dangers. Parents and educators need to be vigilant and educate children on how to stay safe online. It’s crucial to have open conversations about the risks and teach children to think critically about what they encounter on the internet. Implementing strong privacy settings and monitoring online activities can also help protect children from online predators and harmful content. Are there enough resources and support systems in place to help children and parents navigate these complex online risks effectively?
Safeglia · May 12, 2025 at 2:52 pm
Schools can appoint an online safety lead, provide regular staff training, and partner with us to create bespoke resources that support pupils and parents.
Wealth Management · April 28, 2025 at 9:33 am
Online abuse is a serious issue that affects everyone, especially children, who are often unaware of the dangers they face online. The accessibility of the dark web and the anonymity it provides make it an even greater threat. It’s crucial to educate children about digital resilience and the importance of strong privacy settings. Parents and schools must work together to create a safer online environment for young people. How can we effectively monitor and limit children’s exposure to these online risks without invading their privacy?
Safeglia · May 12, 2025 at 2:53 pm
Schools can balance safety and privacy by using age-appropriate monitoring tools that flag risks without reading private messages, teach responsible internet use with clear usage boundaries, and open up trust-based communication between staff, pupils, and families.