Tuesday 11 February sees us celebrate Safer Internet Day 2025. A global initiative aimed at promoting safer and more responsible use of online technology and mobile phones, especially among young or vulnerable individuals. This year's theme is ‘Too good to be true? Protecting yourself and others from scams online.’ 

We enjoyed learning about how to spot scams online using the SCAM acronym. 

Sounds too good to be true.

Contact you did not expect.

Asks for personal information.

Money or trade requested. 

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The STEM Ambassadors hosted a 'Moral compass' activity for children in Years 2-6. The STEM Ambassadors read out different online scenarios and challenged the children to stand under the card that matched their opinion; Right, Wrong, Not Sure, or It Depends.

An example scenario: A streamer is paid by a company to talk about their new game. The YouTuber encourages their viewers to buy the game, even though they haven’t bought it themselves. 

I think it is wrong for someone to promote a game they haven't bought because it's dishonest and they don't know if the game is suitable for children.

I enjoyed the moral compass activity because it was a fun way of learning how to stay safe online.

Top tips for parents

Here are five top tips to help keep you and your child safe when online.

1. Protect your identity. Do not share personal information.
2. Think before you post. Once posted its no longer yours.
3. Check your privacy settings.
4. Games and Apps have age ratings for a reason.
5. Make use of the parental controls.

NSPCC - Keeping children safe online

UK Safer Internet Centre