Access to the online environment has expanded dramatically over the last ten years and thus become an integral part of young people’s lives. This should be considered as a natural part of their development. However, as new technologies evolve, the ways in which young people use their online environment to communicate and form relationships are also in flux.
While there are many benefits to this technological expansion, like growing internet coverage and the widespread availability of mobile devices, there are also many more perils for young people. Therefore, it is our collective responsibility to educate young people on the threats they may experience, and protect them to make the online environment as safe as possible. Where something untoward happens online we should provide clear and effective reporting and support mechanisms so they know where to turn to for assistance.