You are living in an age where the Internet and technology are integrated into all facets of your life, and your main concern as a parent should be to boost your children’s online safety. Undoubtedly, the Internet has changed the way you communicate, access information, or learn new things. Still, unfortunately, it also brings a new series of threats parents haven’t faced in the past.
Your children are constantly exposed to digital devices and are living their lives in a technology-driven world, so they must know how to approach it from a very young age. As parents, it’s paramount to be aware of the learning and entertainment opportunities your kids can benefit from and the risks they’re exposed to. In this context, you want to be responsible and protect them from whatever predators might lurk online. This blog provides you with the necessary support to do it.
Why should you protect your children online?
Online privacy is essential for anyone because it protects your personal data while you browse the Internet. It’s also important to protect your kids’ personal information as it can be misused and become the subject of cyberbullying, identity theft, or generation of inappropriate content.
If you think parenting is challenging today, you’re not the only one because, according to studies, 66% of parents share your opinion.
But let’s discuss why you must protect your children from online threats.
Your kids are growing up in a world ruled by the Internet and technology. While it can help them improve their education and diversify their entertainment means, they can also become victims of online dangers.
You protect them from online predators
Billions of people are connected to the Internet and have social media profiles. Many of these are online predators that are only using the Internet to exploit vulnerable individuals, like your children, by gathering their personal data. Therefore, if you protect their information online and take the necessary measures to protect them, you prevent these online criminals from exploiting your children in any way.
You protect them from cyberbullying
Sadly, around 40% of kids have experienced a form of cyberbullying. When you ensure they are protected online, you also limit the opportunities for bullies to target your kids and harm them in any way. Bullying comes in many forms, and harassment and hurtful messages are quite popular online, so it’s essential to protect your children from becoming victims.
You prevent identity theft and data breaches
Children lacking proper education could access suspicious links and use apps that might inadvertently use their data. Identity theft is a real danger online, so it’s crucial to minimise the risk by securing their accounts and educating them about responsible behaviour. At this link: https://www.databreachcompensationexpert.co.uk, you can learn more about data breaches so you can prepare.
The main dangers of Internet use for children
Digital devices are quite common, and kids use them for school assignments, play, and as a means to communicate with their friends. Sometimes, it feels like a struggle to protect them from all the threats lurking on the Web, but it gets easier when you know their nature.
Here is a list of the most encountered threats:
– Cyberbullies
– Predators in chat rooms and on social media platforms
– Phishing scammers
– Age-inappropriate or obscene content
– Graphic or violent content
– Sexually explicit content
– Pirated materials
– Unwanted advertising
– Malware infections
Start the conversation about online threats from an early age
The most effective way to protect your children online is to start the conversation about this subject early and establish a foundation so they can identify the risks and avoid them. Please talk with your children about the benefits and risks associated with them browsing the Internet. Help them develop critical thinking skills from a young age so they can make informed decisions when it comes to the websites they access, the apps they download, and the information they share online.
It’s also advisable to report any inappropriate content you might come across when you browse the Web via your children’s profiles, adjust the privacy settings, and block any unwanted contacts. Communicate with your kids frequently about the way they use the Internet, and make sure they share with you the problems they face when using digital devices. Please encourage them to ask questions so they can learn about online privacy.
You might worry that you’re losing their trust when you control their online activity, but if you approach cybersecurity topics early, you ensure they don’t get involved with malicious entities.
Teach your children online privacy basics
The more educated your children are about online safety, the more protected they are. Teach them the basic rules of sharing data online, like personal details, videos, photos, and other similar content. They should be aware that social media is an environment that all Internet users can access, and many don’t have genuine intentions. Children must understand they shouldn’t share personal data like their name, address, birthday, phone number, location, school, or email. You should also limit the amount of photos and videos they share online because they show cybercriminals how they look and what they do.
Set up parental controls
In order to keep your children safe online, you must establish some privacy settings and parental controls. Ensure you adjust the settings on all platforms and devices so you can influence the content they consume and the interactions they have with other Internet users. Initiate discussions with your children so they know you’re controlling the ways they use the Internet and the measures you have in place to protect them.
Share with them openly the reasons behind setting up parental controls so they understand that the entire family is involved in keeping them safe. Establishing boundaries on how they can browse the Internet and how long they can use digital devices is also advisable. Your job as a parent is to identify the potential online risks and protect your kids from them.