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Online safety basics

The internet is full of good things, and a few risks. Learn how to protect your privacy, spot grooming, never share images, and get help fast.

Protect your private information

Keep your full name, school, address, phone number and location private. Use privacy settings so only people you know can see your posts.

Use strong passwords and do not share them, even with friends.

Think before you post. Once something is online, it can be copied and shared, even if you delete it.

People online are not always who they say

Someone who says they are 13 could be an adult. A friendly profile picture could be fake.

Grooming is when someone builds trust online to harm a young person. Warning signs: lots of compliments and gifts, asking you to keep the chat secret, asking to move to a private app, asking for photos, or wanting to meet.

If an online friend makes you feel special but also asks for secrets, that is a red flag.

Never share images of your body

Never send photos or videos of your private parts or of yourself undressed to anyone, even someone you like or trust.

If anyone asks for such images, or sends them to you, do not reply. Take a screenshot of the profile if you can, block them and tell an adult.

If someone threatens you or says they will share your pictures, it is not your fault. Tell an adult right away. You will not be in trouble.

Getting help

Tell a parent, teacher or other trusted adult about anything that worries you online.

You can report online crimes against children by calling the National Cyber Crime helpline on 1930 or on the official portal, cybercrime.gov.in. An adult can help you do this.

Childline on 1098 is also there for you, day and night.

Key points

  • Keep personal information private and use privacy settings.
  • People online may not be who they say they are.
  • Never share images of your body, with anyone.
  • Secrets, gifts and requests for photos are warning signs.
  • Tell an adult; report on 1930 or at cybercrime.gov.in.

Myth or fact?

Myth

If you delete a photo, it is gone forever.

Fact

Others may already have saved or screenshotted it. It is safest never to share private images.

Myth

If you get into trouble online, you will be blamed.

Fact

The person who harms or threatens a child is responsible. Adults who help you will focus on keeping you safe.

When to get help

  • Tell a trusted adult straight away if anyone online asks for photos, threatens you or asks to meet.
  • Call the National Cyber Crime helpline on 1930, or report at cybercrime.gov.in, with an adult.
  • Call Childline on 1098 if you feel unsafe.
  • If you are in danger, call 112.
Get help now

Check what you know

Question 1

1.An online friend you have never met asks you to keep your chats secret and send a photo. What is this?

Question 2

2.Which information should you keep private online?

Question 3

3.Someone threatens to share a picture of you. What should you do?

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Based on guidance from UNICEF, WHO, Indian Academy of Pediatrics, UNESCO International Technical Guidance on Sexuality Education. Awaiting review by Puberty Lab's clinical advisory board. General education, not medical advice for any one person.

Online safety basics · Puberty Lab