We need to impress on our children that the values we learn at home are tools that they can use positively online. Respect, honesty, courage, empathy are just some of these values.

Be safe online, there's so many different things that can happen.

You wouldn't allow a stranger to stay in your house, then why allow strangers to stay on your account.

What you don't send, cannot be used against you. Image based abuse has the power to scar the soul. A single word; 'No' can help you protect yourself against experiencing image based abuse in the future.

My top tips for parents and guardians:
1. Limit online gaming to certain days and times.
2. Enforce rules with parental control software.
3. Make sure games have been rated to the appropriate level by the entertainment professional authorities.

(Regarding image based abuse)

Just because things didn't work out between and your better half, doesn't give them the right to violate you or have your image tarnished and passed around in the cyber community. Speak up, go to the relevant authorities.

Take the time to have a conversation about online safety with children and teenagers in your family and community.

I like to think of social media as a big buffet table where we can all contribute and also share in the goodness, positivity, opportunities, unity and much more. However, it is unfortunate that on this buffet table there is also rudeness, anxiety, hate, fear and misunderstanding. The sad reality is that when we engage more with the negativity, it has crippling effects to our families and the communities we are a part of. If you're reading this, take a moment to reflect on this question, when I share, am I sharing a message of love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, or gentleness?

I think you have an opportunity to change your world today and you can start right now by changing your message to your area of influence.

Stay safe online and offline everyone.

If someone has used your image without your permission, it is not your fault.
You have rights, educate yourself on your rights and what actions you can take.
Don't let this act of crime prevent you from reaching your goals.
Seek help from people who understand. You don't have to go through this alone.

Social media has made our world a smaller one as most people tend to spend more time interacting online rather than face to face. This has opened a platform for unwanted interactions including image based abuse which is quite a concern. From politicians, those in the LGBTQ community, to school girls; nobody is exempted from this vicious act which can cause serious mental health issues as it seems that nothing can be done about it. However, I learned last week that with a notice of removal from the OSC in most serious cases, the images can be taken down and victims can have their dignity restored.

It's important to spot the difference between a fake account and a real account.

Stop the spread of online bullying, share information, speak up.

While the internet is a powerful tool that can be used to connect like minded people and communities, it is also often used as a platform to harass and abuse people within the sanctuary of their own homes. Please treat people with respect and do not discriminate based on race, gender, sex, background or identity. Stop bullying online.