As the summer break begins, parents are being reminded of the importance of teaching their children about safe online habits. While the internet provides access to entertainment and social spaces, it also exposes children to a variety of risks. This article will highlight the top seven internet safety risks for kids and provide tips for keeping them safe online.
One of the most prevalent risks children face online is cyberbullying. A study conducted by Pew Research found that almost half of 13 to 17-year-olds in the US have experienced cyberbullying behaviors. This can range from name-calling and spreading rumors to receiving explicit images and physical threats. Older teenagers are particularly susceptible to this kind of abuse, which can have serious effects on their mental health.
In addition to cyberbullying, there are also predators who seek to prey on children online. These individuals often use pseudonyms and pretend to be around the same age as their victims. They may engage in online grooming or soliciting, and in some cases, engage in non-consensual sexting. Perpetrators may use explicit content they obtained from the victim as leverage, threatening to share it with friends and family unless more content or money is provided. It’s important for children to be aware of these dangers and know how to protect themselves.
Another risk children face online is exposure to inappropriate content. This not only includes pornography and violent imagery but also material that promotes self-harm and suicide. To strike a balance between protecting children and allowing them to explore the online world, parents should establish guidelines for age-appropriate content.
As children become more tech-savvy, they may engage in online marketplaces and fall victim to cash or marketplace scams. Fraudulent activity on sites like Facebook Marketplace is common, with items being sold as defective or counterfeit or not being delivered at all. It’s important for children to understand the potential risks associated with online transactions and to use secure payment methods.
Gaming is a popular activity among children, but it also exposes them to risks such as cyberbullying, scams, predators, and inappropriate content. Pirated games, in particular, can be a source of malware, as hackers will often disguise malicious software as game downloads. Parents should encourage their children to only download games from legitimate sources and monitor their online gaming activity.
Connected toys, which have become increasingly popular, can also pose privacy and security risks. Some toys may record content without securely storing it, potentially allowing hackers to spy on children and their families. Before purchasing connected toys, parents should thoroughly research the security measures implemented by the manufacturer.
Phishing attacks are a threat not only to adults but also to children. Social engineering tactics can trick children into sharing personal or financial information or installing malware on their devices. It’s important for children to be cautious when interacting online and to never click on links or open attachments in unsolicited messages.
To keep their family safe, parents should ensure their child’s device is up-to-date and equipped with anti-malware software. It’s also advised to avoid storing family cards in gaming accounts to prevent overspending. Setting ground rules for screen time and discussing appropriate content with children is essential. In cases where guidelines are not enough, parents can consider implementing parental controls to block access to specific content and set time limits for usage.
While it is natural for children to spend time online during the summer holidays, it is essential for parents to remind them of the importance of disconnecting and enjoying real-world activities. By educating children about the risks of the online world and implementing safety measures, parents can help ensure their children have a safe and enjoyable summer break.