Katanning police and Shire join forces to bring comprehensive cyber safety sessions to kids and parents

Katanning police in partnership with the Shire of Katanning and Katanning Regional Emergency Accommodation Centre are bringing a series of cyber safety forums to the community on June 13. Katanning OIC Acting Insp. Carlos Correia said that the information sessions would provide knowledge on how to stay safe online, cope with cyberbullying and identify scams. “We’ve got kids coming into Katanning from all around the region for the school sessions,” he said. “It’s important to be aware of and recognise exploitation of all kinds, (WA Police officer) Paul (Litherland) is a renowned speaker and the 6pm session in the town hall will provide a great opportunity for parents to ask questions.” The forums will be run by Surf Safe Online founder and former WA police officer Paul Litherland, one of Australia’s foremost internet awareness educators. Two sessions for primary students in Year 5-6 and high school students will take place at Katanning Senior High School. The hour-long sessions will examine cyberbullying, social networking and apps, online gaming and website use and netiquette. In addition, high school students will receive advanced information on sexting and online sexploitation focusing on peer pressure, sending nude images, vulnerability and the law. From 6-7.30 pm a forum will be held for parents and teachers at the Katanning Town Hall. Similar topics will be explored at the evening forum in an effort to educate the audience about the risks that children face online while providing a basic understanding of juvenile internet use. Mr Litherland will also be available to answers questions, provide safety tips and share some of his own experiences.