Staying Safe Online
- Matt Bishop MP
- Jun 25
- 2 min read
Every day, I receive correspondence from constituents about online abuse, harassment, scams, harmful content and staying safe online.
As a former police officer and now as your Member of Parliament, I've seen the real impact that online abuse, harassment and intimidation can have on individuals and families. That's why I wanted to share some practical advice and trusted sources of support.
Whether you're using social media, messaging apps, email, or other online platforms, it's important that everyone knows how to protect themselves and where to find support if something goes wrong.
Please take a few moments to read the information below and consider sharing it with your friends and family.
Reporting & Blocking
Learn how to report harmful behaviour and stop unwanted contact:
Report abusive, threatening, or inappropriate behaviour.
Block anyone who makes you feel uncomfortable or continues contacting you after you've asked them to stop.
Review your privacy settings so only people you trust can contact you.
Know Your Rights and The Rules
The Online Safety Act has introduced new duties on online platforms to help keep users safe:
Ofcom – Online Safety
Online platforms have a responsibility to protect users from illegal content and other harms.
Bullying, threats, stalking, hate speech and other abusive behaviour are not acceptable and may breach both platform rules and the law.
If you see harmful or hurtful content, report it to the platform. Your report could help protect someone else.
Where to Get Support
Find trusted advice and support if something online worries you:
Speak to someone you trust if you're worried about something you've experienced online.
If you believe a crime has been committed, report it to your local police force or Action Fraud where appropriate.
Specialist organisations can provide confidential advice and support when you need it.
No one should have to feel unsafe online.
If you experience abuse or harassment, remember three simple steps:
Report it.
Block it.
Seek support.
Consequences for Offenders
Being behind a screen does not put anyone above the law:
Online bullying, stalking, harassment, threats and malicious communications can have devastating consequences for victims. They can also have serious consequences for those responsible. Depending on the circumstances, offenders could face account suspension, police investigation, criminal prosecution, and lasting consequences for their education, employment and future opportunities.
Think before you post and always treat others with respect.
Everyone deserves to feel safe online. Whether you're a child, a young person or an adult, abuse is never "just part of being online". If you experience it, report it, block it, seek support, and remember that help is available.
Together, we can all play our part in making the internet a safer place for everyone.
