Fostering a safer cyberspace for women and girls

BRIGHTON Beach SAPS closed off women’s month with a proactive initiative which saw local officers place an emphasis on the safety of women and girls in cyberspace, with the focus area of the educational awareness initiative being cyberbullying.

Male members, employed under the Public Service Act, joined forces with Brighton beach police communications officer, Captain Louise Le Roux for a two-hour foot beat operation. “Operational actions included the patrolling of the inner and outer perimeters of the Hill Side Mall, and Bluff Towers Mall while interacting with locals and visitors at the centres while distributing educational brochures. The brochures were also placed at a cash point in selected stores and on motor vehicles. A total of 1 000 brochures were distributed on the day,” said Le Roux.

Le Roux said that girls are encouraged to report to their parents, guardians and caregivers if they find themselves in a situation where cyberspace has become a threat to them. “Don’t delay asking for help, before the situation gets out of control. Mothers should not brush off their daughter’s plea or impose self-blame on them when they fall prey to cyberbullying, act immediately. Women and girls are most susceptible to cyberstalking, cyber harassment and cyber gossiping. Don’t accept friend requests from people you don’t now. Do not give out personal information to an individual you don’t know.