Staying safe online

Phones bring friends, learning and fun. They can also bring strangers who pretend to be kind, and people who share or threaten with private pictures. Many families share one phone, and that matters too. What is on it may be seen by others.

Everyday habits

• Use a strong, private password. Do not share OTPs with anyone.
• Keep accounts private. Accept only people you know.
• Do not share your school, address or routine with someone you met online.
• Be careful with video calls and photos. Once sent, a picture can be copied.
• If something online makes you uncomfortable, you can leave, block and tell someone.

If someone threatens to share your pictures (sextortion)

1. It is not your fault. The person threatening you is committing a crime.
2. Do not pay money, and do not send more pictures. Paying usually leads to more demands.
3. Do not delete the chat. Take screenshots of messages, the profile and any payment details, and save them somewhere safe.
4. Block and report the account on the app.
5. Report at cybercrime.gov.in or call the cyber crime helpline 1930.
6. Tell an adult you trust. If you are under 18, Childline (1098) can help.