HERE AT SCHOOL FUN RUN, WE TAKE CHILD SAFETY SERIOUSLY.

For example, Cyber Security Experts recommend that parents DO NOT upload images of their children online. That’s exactly the advice we’ve followed, and as such, kids cannot upload any pictures to their School Fun Run profile. Instead, they have extra fun selecting from a range of awesome avatars. They can then customise their avatar to project their personalities online.

IN ADDITION TO THAT:

  • No last names are displayed online.

  • There is no search function, plus URL’s are private & non-guessable. The only way to view a student’s profile page is to have the link shared directly.

  • Following every SCHOOL FUN RUN, Student Profile Pages are disabled, which removes all information from the internet.

  • All PII data is deleted at the end of the year that follows your event.

  • Private messages cannot be sent to student profiles. Donors can leave a message of encouragement, however it is all displayed publicly, removing any anonymity.

  • No profile pictures, the kids get to create avatars instead!

  • No Event dates are shown to the public

JustGiving - It’s also no mistake that we’re partnered with a world-leading provider of online fundraising in JustGiving. It means people from all over the world can now support your school. It’s great to know that JustGiving is Tier 1 PCI compliant, which means the storage of donor and user information is the highest standard in the world.

*** If you’d like to contribute ideas on ways we can improve our cybersecurity measures, please email us at security@schoolfundraising.com.au

Cyber Safety Tips for Parents

Ensuring your children's safety online requires proactive measures and open communication. Start conversations about the importance of cyber safety early, teaching them about privacy settings, the dangers of sharing personal information, and how to recognise online threats. Utilise parental control tools to monitor and manage their online activities, limiting access to inappropriate content and tracking screen time. Encourage your children to create strong, unique passwords and stress the importance of not sharing them with friends. Keep an eye on their online interactions, regularly checking social media accounts and discussing their friendships. Create an environment where your children feel comfortable sharing their online experiences with you to help keep them safe.

Cyber Safety Tips for Kids

To stay safe online, kids should follow some essential cyber safety tips. First, it's important to never share personal information, such as your full name, address, or school details, with strangers online. Always use strong, unique passwords for different accounts and avoid sharing them with friends. When interacting on social media or gaming platforms, be mindful of what you post, as anything shared can last forever. If someone makes you uncomfortable or behaves inappropriately, talk to a trusted adult immediately. Remember to think before clicking on links or downloading files, as these could contain harmful viruses or scams. Lastly, set limits on screen time and take breaks to engage in offline activities. By following these tips, kids can enjoy the internet while staying safe and secure.

Cyber Safety Awareness for School-Aged Children

As school-aged children engage more with technology, it's essential to equip them with the knowledge and skills to navigate the online world safely. They may encounter various online risks, including cyberbullying, inappropriate content, and online predators. To help keep them safe, fostering open communication is crucial—encourage your child to discuss their online experiences and any concerns they may have. Setting clear boundaries around internet use, including time limits and appropriate sites, can further enhance safety. Modeling responsible online behavior is also important, as children learn by example. Teaching them to think critically about the information they encounter online, promoting digital literacy, and utilizing resources like the Australian Cyber Safety website can provide valuable guidance. By proactively discussing cyber safety and implementing these strategies, we empower our children to develop the skills needed to stay safe online and become responsible digital citizens. Together, we can create a safer online environment for them.

Learn More About Cyber Safety

Understanding Cyber Safety

Cyber safety encompasses a range of practices aimed at protecting individuals, particularly children, from the potential dangers of the online world. These dangers include cyberbullying, exposure to inappropriate content, and privacy breaches. It’s vital to educate children about these risks and equip them with the tools to navigate the internet responsibly.

The Importance of Cyber Security Awareness Month

Cyber Security Awareness Month, as highlighted by the Australian Cyber Security Centre, serves as a reminder for everyone to evaluate their online practices and knowledge. The goal is to promote safer online behaviours and increase awareness of cyber threats. For schools and parents, it’s an opportunity to engage children in conversations about their online experiences and safety.

Key Cyber Safety Tips for Parents and Educators

First, encouraging open discussions about online experiences can help children feel comfortable sharing any concerns they may encounter. Ask about their favourite websites, who they communicate with, and any instances where they felt uncomfortable. This dialogue creates trust and ensures that children know they can seek help when needed.

Next, establishing clear rules around internet usage is essential. These guidelines should include screen time limits, appropriate content, and privacy settings. Teach children how to use privacy settings on social media platforms to protect their personal information.

Educating children about cyberbullying is also crucial.The Daniel Morcombe Foundation has done some amazing work for children ‘s safety, they highlight the importance for children to understand what constitutes cyberbullying, how to recognise it, and the significance of reporting it. Encourage children to be kind and respectful online and to stand up against bullying when they see it.

In addition, children should learn to think critically about the information they encounter online. Discuss the importance of verifying sources before believing or sharing content. This skill is essential in an age where misinformation can spread rapidly. Resources from eSafety Australia offer helpful guidance for parents on teaching digital literacy.

Parents can also utilise parental control settings on devices and platforms to help manage what children access online. These controls allow filtering content and monitoring activity, providing an additional layer of protection. Take the time to explore these options and implement them where necessary.

Encouraging safe online practices is vital as well. Teach children to create strong passwords and not to share them with anyone. Help them recognise phishing scams and be cautious about sharing personal information with strangers online.

Resources for Parents and Educators

To support parents and educators in promoting cyber safety, several resources are available. The Australian Cyber Security Centre (ACSC) offers a variety of educational materials and guidelines to help individuals stay safe online. Their Cyber Security Awareness Month campaign provides valuable insights and tips for navigating digital threats.

The Daniel Morcombe Foundation provides resources specifically aimed at children, focusing on cyber safety and bullying prevention. Their materials can help facilitate discussions and educate children about the risks they may face online.

eSafety Australia, a government initiative, offers comprehensive resources for parents and educators, including tips on creating digital resilience in children and understanding current online trends.

Here at School Fundraising we also provide educational materials and programs focused on cyber safety, helping schools engage students in meaningful discussions about online behaviour.

Importance of Cyber Safety for Families and Children

The internet plays an integral role in our daily lives, offering a wealth of information and opportunities for connection. However, with these advantages come significant risks, particularly for families and children. Understanding the importance of cyber safety is essential for protecting your loved ones in this ever-evolving landscape.

1. Protecting Personal Information:
Children are often unaware of the implications of sharing personal information online. Teaching them about the importance of privacy—such as not sharing full names, addresses, or school details—can prevent potential dangers, including identity theft and online predation.

2. Navigating Online Relationships:
The internet opens doors to new friendships and connections, but not all are safe. Cyber safety education equips children with the skills to recognise harmful interactions, such as cyberbullying or manipulative behavior. Encouraging open conversations about their online experiences helps create a supportive environment where they feel comfortable discussing any issues they may encounter.

3. Understanding Digital Footprints:
Every action taken online leaves a digital footprint. Children should understand that what they post can have long-term consequences, affecting future opportunities like college admissions or job prospects. Teaching them to think critically about their online presence can instill a sense of responsibility and foresight.

4. Identifying and Avoiding Online Risks:
From malware to phishing scams, the internet poses various threats. Educating children about recognizing suspicious emails, websites, and links is vital in helping them navigate the online world safely. Regularly discussing the latest online scams can empower them to be vigilant and cautious.

5. Setting Boundaries and Screen Time:
Establishing clear guidelines around internet use, including screen time limits and appropriate content, helps create a balanced use of digital devices. Encouraging offline activities and family interactions promotes a healthier lifestyle while reinforcing the importance of moderation in digital consumption.

6. Encouraging Open Communication:
Maintaining an ongoing dialogue about online activities builds trust and transparency. Encourage children to share their online experiences, including any discomfort or concerns. Being approachable ensures they will turn to you for guidance when faced with challenges.

By prioritising cyber safety, families can create a secure online environment that allows children to explore and learn while minimizing risks. As technology continues to evolve, staying informed and proactive is crucial for safeguarding your family's digital journey.

Cyber Safety FAQ’s

  • Cyber safety awareness is crucial because children are often exposed to various online risks, including cyberbullying, inappropriate content, and privacy breaches. Educating them helps empower their online behavior and decision-making.

  • Children can encounter threats such as cyberbullying, online predators, phishing scams, inappropriate content, and excessive screen time. Recognizing these dangers is the first step to preventing them.

  • Parents can start conversations about internet safety, set clear rules regarding internet use, monitor online activities, and encourage children to speak up about anything that makes them uncomfortable. Regular discussions about safe online practices are essential.

  • Schools can incorporate cyber safety education into their curriculum, provide resources for parents and students, and create a safe environment where children feel comfortable discussing online issues. Workshops and seminars can also raise awareness.

  • There are numerous tools available, including parental control software, educational websites, and apps designed to promote safe online habits. Resources like the Australian Cyber Safety website provide valuable information and guidelines for families.

  • Children should be taught to recognize the signs of cyberbullying, such as receiving hurtful messages or being excluded from online activities. They should know to report bullying to a trusted adult and avoid retaliating.

  • Parents should take the situation seriously, listen to their child, and offer support. Documenting the incidents, reporting them to the relevant platforms, and consulting school authorities can help address the issue effectively.

  • Yes, guidelines can vary by age group. Younger children may need stricter supervision and basic education about not sharing personal information, while teens might benefit from discussions about privacy settings and responsible social media use.

  • Encouraging children to use strong, unique passwords, to avoid sharing personal information (like their full name, address, and school), and to adjust privacy settings on social media platforms can significantly enhance their online safety.

  • Families can establish tech-free zones, like during meals, discuss online activities openly, set limits on screen time, and use apps to monitor online behavior. Promoting open communication about internet use fosters a safer environment.