Online Problems: What to do
When Something Goes Wrong Online – A Simple Action Plan for Parents
1. Stay Calm First
If your child tells you something worrying:
- Thank them for telling you
- Avoid blaming or panicking
- Reassure them: “We’ll deal with this together.”
2. Keep the Evidence
- Take screenshots (include usernames and dates)
- Save messages
- Keep profile links
3. Use Official Reporting Routes – see also Seek Support
Grooming or exploitation – CEOP: www.ceop.police.uk/safety-centre
Illegal images – Internet Watch Foundation: www.iwf.org.uk/report
Nude images shared (under 18s) – Report Remove: www.childline.org.uk/info-advice/bullying-abuse-safety/online-mobile-safety/report-remove
If in immediate danger, call 999.
4. If You Feel Overwhelmed – Use Structured Support
You can use free ChatGPT to help structure next steps.
(Free access: https://chat.openai.com)
Example prompts:
- My child received inappropriate messages. What steps should I take in the UK?
- How do I report online grooming?
- What should I say to my child after cyberbullying?
Important: ChatGPT is a support tool and does NOT replace official reporting or police action.
5. Ongoing Protection at Home
- Keep regular, calm conversations
- Review privacy settings together
- Monitor gaming contacts
- Encourage early disclosure
Children will make mistakes online, just as they do offline.
Trust and communication protect them more than punishment.
