Mob face considerable challenges when it comes to engaging in the online world.
These obstacles are not only unique but pervasive, affecting various aspects of daily life, access to information, and opportunities for advancement.
But it’s important to acknowledge that despite these challenges, engaging online has its upside too. It keeps us connected.
As someone who lives off Country with my son, I can stay connected with my family and friends, and they get to see updates from us as well. For that, we can be grateful.
The online world also provides the opportunity to share our cultures with people and communities that otherwise wouldn't be able to learn from us.
However, it's becoming increasingly important to recognise and address certain risks associated with online engagement.
As parents, understanding what support and actions we can take to keep our kids safe online is paramount.
While we may not be able to monitor all the content our family consume or engage with, online safety laws are one of the ways that we can take action in cases of online abuse or misconduct. The laws provide protection for those experiencing severe online abuse.
Severe online abuse can significantly impact one’s physical or mental health, with potential for temporary or permanent impact.
If you are experiencing adult cyber abuse or helping a child experiencing cyberbullying, the first step is to contact the online platform or service provider directly and request removal of the offending content.
If the service provider doesn’t act or respond to your request, you can make a report directly to the . If you are dealing with the non-consensual sharing of intimate images, or encounter illegal or violent content, you can also contact eSafety directly.
A report from 2018 found .
First Nations crisis line 13YARN says there was surge in demand following the referendum. In November last year - a month after the referendum -
What I’m also seeing more frequently within our community is an increase in people falling victim to scams.
Occasionally, it starts with adding someone (seemingly harmless) on Facebook.
But upon visiting their profile, one can often find details promoting a Ponzi scheme exploiting our mob for financial gain.
In these cases, my advice is to make sure you only add people that you know in real life.
Don’t open yourself up to people that you don’t know and could be trying to take advantage of you.
Phone scams are another avenue mob need to be aware of. You might receive a text message allegedly from a reputable company, yet often, it will include a link redirecting you to a fraudulent webpage trying to obtain your personal information or solicit money.
It’s important to remember, if you have fallen victim to an online scam, there is support available, visit . And if you have experienced online identity theft or fraud, you can report the incident to the.
If you need additional support, you can call 13 YARN (13 92 76), a confidential, culturally safe crisis support line for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Peoples, available all day, every day.
Leila Gurruwiwi is a Yolngu woman originally from Galiwinku on Elcho Island in North East Arnhem land. She is an Australian media commentator and television show producer.
