Cornwall Football Association and Bodmin Youth FC Address Online Safety Concerns

In a recent statement released by the Cornwall Football Association, the organisation highlighted serious concerns brought to their attention by Bodmin Youth FC regarding the safety of young football players online. Bodmin Youth FC reported that individuals masquerading as football scouts or footballers have been approaching players through the internet, soliciting photographs and personal information under false pretences.

The Cornwall Football Association emphasised the importance of open dialogues about internet safety between parents and their children, urging the need for vigilance and education to navigate the digital realm securely. The association provided a set of guidelines aimed at fostering safer online environments for young individuals. These include initiating conversations about online safety, setting clear rules for internet use, regularly reviewing and adjusting privacy settings on social media accounts and devices, and teaching children to manage their privacy as they grow older.

Moreover, the association shared resources for parents and guardians to better equip them to discuss internet safety, pointing towards websites like Safer Internet Day for further guidance and tools. Link provided by Cornwall Football Associsation – https://www.saferinternetday.org/resources

Bodmin Youth FC has taken proactive steps to address the issue by informing their club members about the deceptive practices some individuals use to exploit young players. They clarified that legitimate football scouts would not contact players directly through social media for photographs or personal information. The club also encouraged open discussions about internet safety and reminded players and their parents to be cautious of who they interact with online.

As a response to these incidents, Bodmin Youth FC is in communication with the Football Association to address the concerns further. They have also made it clear that anyone with worries or questions should not hesitate to reach out to them.

This collaborative effort between Bodmin Youth FC and the Cornwall Football Association serves as a vital reminder of the importance of internet safety in safeguarding the well-being of young athletes and individuals across the digital landscape.