The recent sweep of fake school accounts set up on a social media platform, can cause real distress to those whose image or name is featured.
Many schools in Northern Ireland are reporting these accounts to the PSNI.
In a recent BBC news article it stated ;
"Justin McCamphill, from the Teachers' union, said the trend had begun after the Halloween school break before gaining momentum in recent days.
He said parents should be aware of their young peoples' activities, while schools and employing authorities should act because of the "extreme distress" caused in some cases.
Mr McCamphill added that young people may be competing with each other by making potentially defamatory comments without thinking of the stress they are causing.
We warn parents and pupils that they need to be aware of the consequences of this."
In St. Mary's High School we operate a 'No Mobile Phone Policy' to safeguard pupils and staff.
We try to educate our pupils with what is, and is not acceptable, behaviour online. We also raise awareness on how students may be breaking the law, with their online behaviour, without even realising it.
We would urge our Parents/Guardians to talk to your children to ensure they are keeping themselves safe online.
