Reporting Unsafe or Inappropriate Online Content
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What you will learn
- 1Describe what unsafe or inappropriate online content looks like
- 2Sequence the correct steps to follow when encountering unsafe content
- 3Explain why reporting unsafe content to a trusted adult is important
Mini Lesson
Sometimes you might come across content online that makes you feel uncomfortable, scared, or confused. This could be a violent video, an upsetting message, or a website that is clearly not meant for children. Knowing exactly what to do when this happens keeps you safe.
What Is Unsafe or Inappropriate Content?
- Videos or images showing violence, danger, or harm to people or animals.
- Messages from strangers asking for personal information or to meet in person.
- Websites or games rated for adults that you have stumbled upon.
- Content that is hateful, bullying, or designed to upset you.
- Pop-ups or links that trick you into clicking on dangerous material.
The 5-Step Reporting Sequence
- SEE — notice that the content looks wrong, scary, or inappropriate.
- STOP — do not click further or share the content with anyone.
- CLOSE SCREEN — shut the tab, app, or browser immediately.
- TELL A TRUSTED ADULT — find your parent, grandparent, or caregiver and explain what you saw.
- WAIT — let the adult handle reporting to the platform; do not go back to the content.
Why Reporting Matters
- It helps protect you and others from harmful material.
- Adults can report the content to the website so it gets removed.
- It alerts parents or caregivers to dangers they should know about.
- You will not be in trouble for seeing something by accident — telling the truth is always the right thing to do.
Words to know
Report
To tell a trusted adult about something unsafe online
e.g. I will report any scary post I see.
Unsafe content
Things online that could harm or upset you
e.g. A violent video is unsafe content.
Inappropriate
Not suitable for your age
e.g. Inappropriate ads should be reported.
Trusted adult
A grown-up you can talk to about anything online
e.g. My grandma is a trusted adult.
Close screen
To shut the tab or app right away when something feels wrong
e.g. I close the screen and find an adult.
You are NOT in trouble for accidentally seeing something unsafe. You ARE always doing the right thing by telling a trusted adult.
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