Occasionally when using the internet or a mobile phone you may see, receive or experience something which causes you concern. You might, for instance, receive an e-mail which is offensive or abusive. You may experience harassment online, spam advertising, or content you find offensive such as pornography, or pro-anorexia sites. Alternatively you may think you have been the victim of a crime such as identity theft or online fraud.

In such situations it is important to know to whom you can report issues. Sometimes it is clear, such as in emergencies when you should always contact the police. However, in other situations you may be unsure of who you can report offensive or illegal content to, or to whom you can report suspicions of child abuse.

The articles in this section help to clarify how various organisations can help with issues such as illegal and offensive content, abusive communications, breaches of privacy, data protection and online grooming.

Source: Cyberspace Research Unit