Being able to share with each other is part of what makes the internet fun and useful. Cat videos, funny memes, and news about current events circle the web at lightning speed. And that’s a good thing.
When sharing information online you should think about why you want to share something.
Misinformation spreads online when we don’t stop and think before we share.
Sharing to build your relationships and community
We share posts and pictures online to communicate with friends and whānau. Sharing a picture of a meal or a beautiful sunset can be a great way to reach out to your friends and whānau. This kind of sharing keeps us connected.
If you like to share these kinds of posts, be sure to keep an eye on your privacy settings. You should know who can see your posts and how to change these settings.
Check out NetSafe's Privacy Resource(external link) for more info.
Sharing to keep people safe
Bad weather on the way? Is a new online scam going around?
We all want to help keep each other safe. Sharing safety information is part of how we protect each other.
This kind of sharing is important--so you don’t want to make a mistake.
- Is it true?
It’s important to be correct when helping to keep people safe. This is the time to use your lateral reading skills. Rely on media sources(external link) who have agreed to follow the Media Council Principles(external link). Check and double-check to make sure the information you are sharing is true.
- Is it current?
Life moves fast. Before you share information, double check to make sure that the situation is still happening. Sharing information about a weather event that happened last week isn’t very helpful. Old posts can float around social media for weeks after an event happens. Be sure the information you share is current. - Is this the right audience?
Different people face different risks. Think about your online communities. Are you part of a game community? An online classroom? When sharing safety information online, think about who needs to hear it. Your Roblox friends probably don’t need to know about the road closure by your school.