What is online safety? 

Online safety (or eSafety) means keeping yourself and others safe when using the internet and digital devices. 

Being online is part of everyday life. People use it to stay in touch, use services, work and find information. But there can also be risks. 

Online safety is about knowing the risks and taking simple steps to stay safe and in control. 

Top 5 online safety tips 

• Keep personal information private 
• Use strong, different passwords for your accounts 
• Be careful with unexpected messages, links or attachments 
• Review your privacy settings on apps and websites 
• Block, report or ask for help if something does not feel right 

How being online can support wellbeing 

Being online can support your wellbeing when it is used safely. 

• Staying connected with family, friends and community 
• Accessing support services and information 
• Learning new skills and managing everyday tasks 
• Finding support during difficult times 

Digital tools can make it easier to connect with others, learn new things and use services. 

Common online risks 

There are many benefits to being online, but there are also risks to watch out for. 

Harmful interactions 

• Cyberbullying or online harassment 
• Abuse or threatening behaviour 
• Sharing or using personal images without permission 

This can include repeated hurtful messages, threats, or someone sharing a photo of you without your permission. 

Scams and fraud 

Scammers may try to trick you into sharing personal details or money through messages that look real.  Limiting the personal information you share online such as your address, phone number, date of birth and bank details can help to protect you from scams and fraud.  

For example, a scam might be a text message pretending to be from a bank, government service or delivery company. 

Scams can look like:  

• Fake messages, emails or calls 
• Requests for personal or financial information 
• Offers that seem too good to be true 

Harmful or distressing content 

Online harm can affect your mental health, safety and wellbeing. 

If something you see online feels upsetting, you can stop viewing it, leave the page, or talk to someone you trust. 

How to stay safe online 

There are simple steps you can take to protect yourself online. 

Protect your information 

• Be careful about what you share online 
• Keep personal details private 
• Review privacy settings on apps and websites 

Privacy settings help you choose who can see your information, posts and activity. 

Secure your devices and accounts 

Simple security steps can help protect you from online threats. 

A strong password is longer and harder for other people to guess. Using a different password for each account can also help keep you safer. 

Be aware of scams 

• Be cautious of unexpected messages or requests 
• Do not click unfamiliar links or attachments 
• Do not share personal information unless you contacted the person or organisation first 

If you are unsure whether a message is real, do not reply straight away. Contact the organisation using details from its official website or app. 

Stay in control of your experience 

• Block or report harmful content or behaviour 
• Limit time online if it is affecting your wellbeing 
• Take breaks from platforms when needed 

Blocking stops a person from contacting you through that platform. Reporting lets the platform review the behaviour or content. 

Why online safety matters for veterans and families 

For veterans and families of veterans, being online can be an important way to: 

• Access services and support 
• Stay connected to others 
• Manage health and wellbeing 

But being online can also expose people to scams, false information and online abuse. 

Knowing these risks and what to do can help you feel more confident when using online services. 

Even a basic understanding of online safety can help people make safer choices and know when to ask for help. 

Getting help 

If something goes wrong online, you can get help. 

• You can report harmful content or online abuse to the eSafety Commissioner 
• Many platforms also have reporting and blocking tools 
• If you feel unsafe, reach out to a trusted person or service 

The eSafety Commissioner is Australia’s national online safety regulator. It can help with reporting harmful online content. 

If something happens online, it can help to take screenshots, stop replying, block the person or account, and report the problem. 

You are not alone 

Many people are still learning how to stay safe online. You do not need to know everything to take simple steps that protect you. 

If something online does not feel right, you do not have to deal with it on your own. Help is available. 

More information and support 

If you want more information or support, these trusted Australian services can help. 

• eSafety Commissioner – online safety advice, reporting harmful content, and help with online abuse 
• Scamwatch – advice about scams and how to report them 
• Cyber.gov.au – simple tips to protect your devices, accounts and personal information 
• IDCARE – support if your identity or personal information has been misused or stolen 
• Beyond Blue – support if online experiences are affecting your mental health and wellbeing