“Think before you click,” police officer cautions students

Hassan: Mr. Pratap, a police officer from Central Kaim Police Station, Hassan, has advised students to be very cautious while engaging on social media.

He was addressing students, parents and teachers while participating in an awareness programme on ‘Safety measures to be taken while using social media and internet’ held at Vijaya School on Wednesday.He said, “Step back and think for a moment while collecting or giving any information on social media or WhatsApp. Engaging with unknown people can pose severe risks and consequences. Teachers and parents should also follow these guidelines to stay safe in modern times.”

“Using free Wi-Fi available everywhere and using other people’s phone chargers can increase the risk of getting caught in a cyber crime trap.  Be very careful while downloading some apps on phones.  Currently in India, students in the age group of 15 to 24 are using social networking sites the most.  They are spending too much time making and watching reels.  The number of people using social media for educational purposes is very less.  Parents should pay attention when their children use phones.  Everyone should keep a strong password for the apps they use,” he said. He explained in detail about the safety measures to be taken while using social networking sites and the internet, and told the students to report any suspicious matters to the police by dialing 1930 (One Nation One Number) or the nearest police station. In the programme, the founder-director of Vijaya School, Tara S. Swamy, academic head Dr.  Shri Lakshmi, Principal Nandisha KS and teachers, students and parents were present.