The internet is an incredible tool for learning, communication, and connection — but it also comes with risks.
The Woodstock Police Service encourages residents to stay safe online and help protect children, families, and personal information from digital threats.
General Internet Safety
The best way to stay safe online is to set clear boundaries and encourage open communication within your household.
Simple steps for online safety:
- Create a family internet agreement outlining hours of use, approved websites, and safe online behaviour.
- Place computers or tablets in common areas (like the living room) where use can be supervised.
- Keep mobile devices out of bedrooms and bathrooms.
- Set up a central charging station for all devices overnight.
- Creating a monitored and respectful environment helps everyone use the web safely and responsibly.
Family Internet Safety
Children and teens are often the most vulnerable to online risks such as scams, cyberbullying, and sextortion.
Talking regularly about safe online habits builds trust and awareness.
Tips for parents and caregivers:
- Discuss the risks of sharing personal information or photos online.
- Teach your children about online scams, predators, and peer pressure.
- Encourage them to avoid public chat rooms and games that connect with strangers.
- Review your child’s browser history and privacy settings regularly.
- Install parental controls, filters, or child-safe browsers.
- Create a list of approved bookmarks or websites for younger users.
- Remind children to report strange or uncomfortable messages right away.
Even small steps can prevent big problems — awareness is the strongest form of protection.
Cyberbullying
Cyberbullying happens when someone uses the internet or social media to repeatedly harass, humiliate, or threaten another person.
It can happen through comments, posts, stories, texts, or shared photos.
Teach your children to:
- Understand that disagreement is okay — bullying is not.
- Follow the rule: “If you wouldn’t say it in person, don’t post it online.”
- Be a positive digital citizen by reporting harmful content they see.
- Learn how to block and report bullies on social platforms.
- Recognize signs of cyberbullying and seek help from a trusted adult.
Common warning signs your child may be affected:
- Avoids talking about online activity.
- Shows anxiety when messages arrive.
- Withdraws from friends or family.
- Experiences sleep or appetite changes.
- Has declining grades or avoids school.
If you suspect your child is being bullied, open a conversation and seek support from school staff, counsellors, or law enforcement.
Sexting and Sextortion
Sexting involves sending or sharing sexually explicit messages, images, or videos — often through text, social media, or apps like Snapchat or WhatsApp.
Sometimes, these images are later used to threaten or blackmail the person who shared them. This is known as sextortion.
If you or someone you know is being sextorted:
- Do not send more images, messages, or money.
- Stop all contact immediately.
- Report the incident to police.
- Save all messages and evidence.
- Block the offender on all platforms.
If you have information about online sextortion of a child or encounter illegal material online, report it anonymously to: Cybertip.ca Report
For more information on sextortion and online exploitation, visit the Canadian Centre for Child Protection.
Victims seeking assistance can also visit VASoc.
Remember
- Think before you click, share, or post.
- Protect your privacy — your digital footprint lasts forever.
- Encourage conversations with children about what they do online.
If you believe a crime has occurred or someone is in immediate danger, call 9-1-1.
For non-emergency concerns, contact the Woodstock Police Service at (519) 537-2323.