Young people in Bermuda are using the Internet and online communication more than ever and to ensure they are safe Government is continuing to offer its Cybertips initiative.

After legislation was passed in 2008 promoting online safety and legislation, the Ministry of E-Commerce in partnership with telecommunications carriers and the Police created Cybertips – an educational programme promoting safe Internet use.

Cybertips is offered to primary, middle and secondary schools as well as private schools, parent teacher associations and youth organisations. Cybertips.bm, the campaign's accompanying website was designed to spark conversation between children and parents as well as being an additional source of helpful information.

"Internet predators, bullying and stalking are threats to our children and their safety, and we are keenly aware that Bermuda is not immune," Minister of Energy Telecommunications and E-Commerce, Michael Scott told the House of Assembly on Friday. "Therefore it is important for us to be conscious of the ways that we can use the latest technologies in our families while keeping those who are most vulnerable safe."

Cyber-bullying, a form of harassment often perpetrated by school peers using things like social networking websites, text messaging, and other electronic communication media to pick on or "bully" someone, is becoming widespread around the world including Bermuda.

"Unlike bullying in real life, cyber bullying can make the person being bullied feel that they cannot escape since it can happen anywhere and at anytime," said Mr. Scott. "The Cybertips initiative provides students, their teachers and parents information on the consequences of cyber-bullying and advice on what to do in such situations."

Now, through cybertips.bm children between two and nine can access Hector's World, an educational website with a focus on Internet safety.

"It is the aim of Cybertips to provide practical tips, resources and contact information to help parents, children and educators to use the Internet safely and be on guard against online predators, in appropriate content and other issues that may be encountered during this digital age," said Mr. Scott.

"In a time when all of Bermuda and indeed, the world, are accessible to a child from their phones, homes and other devices, Cybertips is more important than ever."