How can we help you?

At Virgin Mobile, we want to help keep kids safe online. Here are some common questions about cyberbullying and online safety:

What is cyberbullying?

Cyberbullying is when someone uses technology to be mean to others. This can happen on social media, messaging apps, or online forums. It includes saying hurtful things, spreading rumors, or sharing private information without permission.

How can I tell if my child is being cyberbullied?

Look for changes in your child's mood or behavior. They might seem sad, anxious, or not want to use the internet. They might also be secretive about what they're doing online.

What should I do if my child is being cyberbullied?

Stay calm and listen to your child. Let them know you support them and it's not their fault. You can report cyberbullying to the school, the website or app where it's happening, or the police if it's serious. Save any evidence of cyberbullying, like screenshots or messages.

How can I help my child stay safe online?

Talk to your child about online safety. Teach them not to share personal information with strangers, to be careful about what they post online, and to tell you if something makes them uncomfortable. You can also use parental controls on their devices and check in on what they're doing online. Encourage them to be kind and respectful to others online.

Where can I report cyberbullying in the UAE?

You can call the Ministry of Education's Child Protection Unit at 80085 or the Ministry of Interior's Child Protection Centre at 116111. You can also email CPU@moe.gov.ae or visit www.ecrime.ae.

What are some other tips for keeping my child safe online?

• Use the Hemayati app to stay safe: You can download the Hemayati application; an electronic hotline for reporting any abuse against children. It is an easy-to-use platform that is available to all community members allowing them to report child abuse, maintain anonymity of the victim and the person who reports the crime, and protect them against any social implications. The app can be downloaded from Google Play store and the Apple App store. In addition to using the Hemayati app, you can also set up parental controls on your child's device (Google Play, iPhone and iPad).

• Set time limits for device use and encourage other activities: It's easy for kids to get sucked into the digital world. Set clear boundaries on screen time, like specific hours or time limits per day. Encourage them to engage in other activities, like playing outside, reading, or spending time with family and friends. This helps them develop a healthy balance between online and offline life.
• Know what apps and websites your child is using: Familiarize yourself with the apps, games, and websites your child enjoys. Check their privacy settings and understand how they work. This helps you identify potential risks and have informed conversations with your child about appropriate online behavior.
• Teach your child how to create strong passwords and not to share them with anyone: A strong password is like a secret code that protects their online accounts. Help your child create passwords that are hard to guess, using a mix of letters, numbers, and symbols. Explain why it's important to keep passwords private, even from friends.
• Explain the risks of talking to strangers online and remind them not to meet up with anyone they've only met online: The internet can be a great place to connect with others, but it's important to be cautious. Talk to your child about the dangers of interacting with strangers online. Explain that people online may not be who they seem and that it's never a good idea to meet someone in person that they've only met online.
• Keep the computer in a common area of the house so you can monitor their activity: Having the computer in a shared space allows you to casually observe your child's online activities. It's not about being sneaky, but rather about being present and available if they need help or guidance. It also discourages them from visiting inappropriate websites or engaging in risky behavior.