Cyber Security and Cyber Behaviour Wednesday 11 June 2013 Alister Payne

What is driving the surge in technology? Technology is growing at an exponential rate PM rated mobile phone as the number 1 most influential and most life changing invention Mobile phone growth is the fastest in the world The arrival of undersea fibre optic cables Social media & instant messaging Alister

The great divide Parent and kids relate to technology differently Either not au fait with the latest technology Or adults use it as a business or communication tool Kids use technology as a social tool They are able to create personas that are different to what they are like in real life And so it is fair to say that the divide exists because we are using the same or similar technology for completely different reasons Alister

The Statistics The internet is playing an ever increasing role in the daily lives of children Payne 2012 Alister

What are the risks of internet usage? Exposure to inappropriate content Sexually explicit content Self-harm material (eating disorders; suicide) Network with like-minded people, and explore and affirm deviant behaviour Undesirable contact with strangers Grooming by paedophiles Inappropriate conduct perpetrated by children Sexting Online harassment & the new phenomenon of cyberbullying Alister

What is cyberbullying? Definition: Bullying via electronic media or communication Characteristics in common with traditional bullying: The intent to do harm; Repetition; Imbalance of power. Additional unique characteristics: Anonymity Lack of feedback; Reach of perpetrator; Beyond school-yard; Draw in larger audience Punitive fear; Alister

Is my child at risk? Age Ages 12 to 13 Gender Female more at risk Single sex girls schools Traditional bullying factors Traditional bullies – Cyber bullies Traditional victims – Cyber victims & Cyber bullies Academic performance Frequency of access Versus duration Alister

Warning signs A child may be a victim of cyberbullying if he or she… unexpectedly stops using the computer appears nervous or jumpy when an Instant Message, text message, or appears appears uneasy about going to school or outside in general appears to be angry, depressed, or frustrated after using the computer avoids discussions about what they are doing on the computer becomes abnormally withdrawn from usual friends and family members Alister

What can I do? Investigate thoroughly Find identity of person Keep evidence Stop responding Become directly involved and involve a trusted adult Contact the staff at school - you will need witnesses, don’t meet alone Alister

Striking a health balance Become informed Open relationship with people, you need to be able to discuss issues – Don’t over react Emphasis empathy - fine line between funny & cruel Create a technology corner in the home & have a cut-off time Evaluate online friendships Check safety settings on the Facebook account - Facebook family centre Take responsibility: Mobiflock.com (Apple/Android/Nokia/Blackberry) | Kids Place (android) Parents must be Facebook friend Alister

Q & A