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In this section you will find a number of responses to some of the queries you may have on internet safety. If you still would like to clarify some issues do not hesitate to go to the Contact Us section and send us your concern!

As adults we must also understand that children and youth may come across adult material by accident on the Web. If a child intentionally searches for such web sites, remember that it is natural for children to be curious about off-limits material. Try to use this as an opening to discuss the content with them, and perhaps make rules for this kind of activity. Be realistic in your assessment of how your child uses the internet. More useful tips for parents and children are provided on this website.

1. Is there a way how other people can control my PC or intrude in my personal computer files through my internet connection?

2. Is internet chatting dangerous?

3. How can I review a past chat?

4. Can other people check what I'm saying on the chat?

5. Is there a way how I can block pop-ups?

6. Can someone receive pornographic material by e-mail?

7. What if I am exposed to pornography whilst chatting?

8. What does the hotline for internet child abuse do?

9. What happens if I submit a report to the hotline?

10. Will my personal details be given to other people?

11. What if someone forces me to view pornographic images?

12. As a parent I am still quite concerned about my child's internet safety, what can I do?

1.Is there a way how other people can control my PC or intrude in my personal computer files through my internet connection?

As a matter of fact yes. You may allow other persons to do so. The problem arises when you do not want it! Always be careful when accepting files or opening emails from people you don't know.

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2. Is internet chatting dangerous?

Chatting on the internet is fun. You make new friends, speak to your mates, share your computer files and enjoy other opportunities. Some people however report unpleasant chatting experiences. This may happen if you are not cautious about giving personal info to other people, especially to those you never met before. Some people may also find it exciting to meet an online pal. It is important to do so under the advice of your parent or a trusted friend who should accompany you.

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3. How can I review a past chat?

If you want to report a chat it is important to keep a copy of it. Different programs can save conversations in different folders and formats. This option needs to be enabled in the first place. However if you don't have one you can still send us your concern.

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4. Can other people check what I'm saying on the chat?

Depends on the chat program that you are using. If you can see what other people are saying, then you know they can see what you are saying. Unless you are chatting in private, then no.

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5. Is there a way how I can block pop-ups?

There are a few pop-up blockers freely available, some bundled with the browser (Internet Explorer/Firefox/etc), and others come along other programmes. Always read reviews about the program to avoid infecting your computer.

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6. Can someone receive pornographic material by e-mail?

Yes. Some of the e-mails you receive may also have links to pornographic sites. These are sometimes found in the spam section. Child pornography has to be stopped. If you receive such material and would like to report it, do so on our website. When children receive adult pornography, parents and children should find some time and talk about it together. It is very difficult to control spam, however, if you are concerned about a particular person sending such material to your child send us your concern.

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7. What if I am exposed to pornography whilst chatting?

With regards to child pornography we encourage you to report it to us. If you are under 18 and an adult is sending you pornography, that's illegal and prosecutable by law.

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8. What does the hotline for internet child abuse do?

The hotline's main objective is to fight against internet child abuse. This service gives information and tips on internet safety. It also provides an adequate support to victims of such abuse and a safe, confidential environment for people to report internet child abuse.

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9. What happens if I submit a report to the hotline?

The report is received by the hotline staff. It is looked into to see if content is child pornography or not. If it is, we will try to locate the country where the website is hosted and notify the hotline of the respective country. If there isn't any, then the police are notified.

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10. Will my personal details be given to other people?

If you submit your personal details these will kept confidentially within the service as long as there is no harm to yourself or to others. The only information that we may pass on to the police is the one you want to report. You may also choose to report anonymously. However, if you choose to do so, we cannot contact you about the progress of the report.

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11. What if someone forces me to view pornographic images?

You should discuss such thing with your parents or with a trusted adult or friend. You can also talk about it with us by calling on 179.

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12. As a parent I am still quite concerned about my child's internet safety, what can I do?

As a parent or carer, the very best thing you can do is to discuss your children's internet use openly with them whilst passing on essential safety tips. Also, put your computer in a place where you can supervise it and ensure that you have an effective filter on your PC to stop unwanted content. Check www.getnetwise.org and www.iwf.org.uk for more information on commercial filters. You can also ask your Internet Service Provider for their services.