CYBERSAFETY – A MODERN CONUNDRUM
Barely a week goes by these days when we do not see the trials and repercussions of posts, tweets, texts and comments in the online world having a serious effect on the wellbeing of individuals and organisations. At the time of writing we read of the State Government considering significant criminal penalties for cyberbullying and stalking.
Whether it be cyberbullying directed towards children in the schoolyard, parties getting out of control due to gatecrashers, people losing their employment due to careless Facebook or Twitter posts, and of course, the more famous incidences we see that have befallen AFL and other sporting stars who use new communications devices inappropriately – the risks and potential damage from new technology is a real and present conundrum.
The mobile phone and the home computer have opened up a brand new world of communications that has far reaching benefits to us all – but also has fair level of risk in the mix as well. The WorkSafe VCFL has in recent seasons experienced the misuse of various forms of social media extending into our sporting environment.
It has become clear that the misuse, and a general lack of education about the pitfalls of technology is required by society in general, and in our experience, by those that play and administer football in the WorkSafe VCFL. The WorkSafe VCFL has been required to deal with an increasing number of cases in which our members are aggrieved and have been vilified in the content of posts, texts, and blogs.
With this in mind, the VCFL engaged Susan McLean of Cyber Safety Solutions to develop a cyber safety policy that would help to protect our members from inappropriate behavior and to provide a process for members to file complaints.
Susan McLean is Australia’s foremost expert in the area of cyber safety and young people and was a member of Victoria Police for 27 years. Widely known as the ‘Cyber Cop’ she was the first Victoria Police Officer appointed to a position involving Cybersafety and young people. Susan has been working closely with the AFL on their education program for players on cybersafety to educate and minimise the risks and harm that this type of communication can cause.
The VCFL Board has determined to take the same view of inappropriate online material as any other activity that, during the playing of a game, would result in disciplinary action.
Cyberbullying includes, but is not limited to, the following misuses of technology: harassing, teasing, intimidating, racially vilifying or threatening another person by sending or posting inappropriate or hurtful messages, instant messages, text messages, phone messages, digital pictures or images, or web postings (including social networking sites and forums) and the sending, receiving and possession of naked or sexually explicit images of a person.
Club members must also be aware that postings from their individual accounts, whether done by themselves or another person will remain the responsibility of the account owner. We have heard first hand that some people have divulged their passwords and account details to other people and friends – we strongly discourage this and remind them of how risky this action could be.
If a WorkSafe VCFL member feels they have been the victim of such misuse of technology in the sporting environment, it is recommended they save and store the material on their computer or phone. They should then print a copy of the material and immediately report the incident to the relevant club or league representative.
All reports will be investigated fully in accordance to VCFL Rule 5.0. Any proven charges will automatically lead to a minimum 2 match suspension for a registered player, or if by a non playing member, a penalty as determined by the League. Players charged with these types of offences for a second or subsequent time will face deregistration.
The issue of cyberbullying and cybersafety is being taken very seriously by the WorkSafe VCFL, and the implementation of this policy, along with education sessions across the state, will be central in further fostering a culture of respect and care across our sport.
We call on all players, parents and officials to carefully read the VCFL Cybersafety Policy and openely discuss the issue with their family, club members and supporters.
Technology is part of our everyday lives and the misuse of such, whether it is intentional of not, will not be accepted by the WorkSafe VCFL.
For further information and advice, please call the VCFL Training Manger, Dean Rice on 03) 8341 6081.
Last Modified on 11/04/2011 16:55