Google launches online safety resource and YouTube safety centre to coincide with Safer Internet Day

Educating and empowering Australians to enjoy a safer Internet experience

Announcement

(10 February 2009) – Google today announced the launch of a dedicated Australian page containing online safety and security tips, as well as a new Australian Safety Centre on YouTube, containing straightforward online safety tips and resources from experts and prominent Australian safety organisations, like Bravehearts and Reach Out.

Google is a partner for Safer Internet Day (Tuesday 10 February), an international initiative supported by the Australian Communications and Media Authority. The day aims to give children, parents and teachers sound advice on how best to manage online risks, so their experiences are safe and positive.

Australians all have roles to play in keeping safe and secure online, so Google has developed resources dedicated to providing the tools and knowledge needed to surf the web with peace of mind.

The YouTube Safety Centre makes it easier for users to access YouTube’s Help and Safety Tool, which gives users granular control over their channel (like blocking comments from specific users) and the ability to quickly report concerns. The YouTube Safety Centre includes content from local organisations Bravehearts and Reach Out, as well as information about KidsHelpline, NetAlert.gov.au, Cybersmart Kids Online and reporting to the Australian Federal Police. It contains information and resources to educate and help users on issues such as cyber citizenship, child and teen safety, hateful content, harassment and cyberbullying, suicide, spam and phishing.

When it comes to online safety, Google’s approach is to:

• Empower parents with tools to help them choose what content their children see online;
• Educate children and parents on how to stay safe online;
• Protect children by working with law enforcement and industry.

Google’s SafeSearch screens for sites that contain adult sites and eliminates them from search results. While no filter is 100% accurate, Google’s filter uses advanced technology to check keywords, phrases, and URLs. Users can modify their computers’ SafeSearch settings by clicking on the Preferences link to the right of the Google search box.

Media Contact

Rob Shilkin,
Google Australia,
rshilkin@google.com,
(02) 9374 4091

Jon Clarke,
Red Agency,
google@redagency.com.au,
(02) 9963 7744

Labels: Australia new announcements