Common online risks for young people
Introduction
Why more vulnerable
Benefits for young people
Online risks
Financial scams
Harmful or inappropriate content
Online grooming
Cyberbullying
Online privacy
Impulsivity online
Talking about safety
Online boundaries
Safe social media use
Critical thinking skills
If things go wrong
Independence and safety
Key messages
Online safety resources
Understanding common online risks helps parents have clearer conversations with their young people about digital safety.
Some of the most significant risks include:
Online grooming
Online grooming occurs when someone builds a relationship with a young person to manipulate, exploit or abuse them.
This process is often gradual and may involve:
- friendly messages and attention
- emotional support and compliments
- requests for secrecy
- increasing personal or inappropriate requests over time
Guidance from the NSPCC emphasises that groomers often appear kind, supportive and trustworthy.
Young people may believe they have formed a genuine friendship or relationship.
