Guidelines for a safe internet usage for kids

Kids using the internet

Born into the digital age, it has become a common practice for kids to use devices like smartphones, tablets, and laptops. There was a time when gadgets were used by only for entertainment and gaming, but in recent times technology and digital communication is being widely used in education as well. This in exposes the kids to increased screen time and gives them access to a wider content on the internet.

Children also use smartphones for gaming and social media networking. Not so aware of the many dangers in the medium, they sometimes place themselves at the risk of cyber-attacks. Totally unaware of who might have access to their information, they post sensitive and personal details on public platform. This data if it falls into the wrong hands, can be used against them and the children in some cases become victim to cyberbullying.

Another prominent danger is when kids play games on smart gadgets and they unknowingly make purchases linked to credit cards or give out information on gaming sites when they make a purchase without verifying the site or give out bank credentials on fraudulent game sites. These reasons have placed kids in a risky digital environment, exposing them to cyber threats and attacks even without their knowledge. Read further to understand how to help kids understand cyberthreats and protect them from falling victim to malicious scams.

Ways to keep kids safe from cyber-threats

Firstly, it is vital to educate kids on the risks they might be exposed to while using their devices or the internet. Letting them know about the cyber-attacks that they might be prone to will help kids be aware of cyber-attacks and inculcate best practices while using the internet. Cybersecurity might be hard to understand, which is why parents or guardians should help them. One can start with the basics of safe internet practices, such as, what an ad is, what are the kinds of ads they should avoid clicking on while gaming, what are the ways in which they can be hacked, what are the reasons for hackers to target them, what are the best practices while using the internet and social media, what kind of personal information they should avoid posting on the internet through social media and so on.

Steps to ensure secure internet usage for kids

Please follow the below steps to ensure safety and prevent loss of data:

Updating your devices: Make sure that the devices that the kids use are updated to the latest version of operating systems. This helps to fix security flaws in the software that, if left open can be used to breach the device.

Turn on multi-factor authentication: This serves as an extra layer of protection around social media accounts. With MFA activated, multiple authentications are required to access an account. So, even if a hacker manages to get though one layer, the accounts remain secure from being compromised.

Back-up the device: This ensures that a copy of all files is made and stashed securely. So, in the event of a cyber-attack and loss of data, there is a back-up of all the files and no data is lost.

Password protection: Using a complex password that are random but also easy to remember will make it hard for hackers to guess and crack through to steal sensitive data.

Reporting spams: Voice Phishing and email phishing methods are used to make the user give out information. It is vital to report a suspicious email, call or message that is received. The faster they are reported, the quicker it is to keep accounts safe and contain the extent of damage.

Secure online surfing tips for kids

Never share personal information online.

Do not respond to email, texts, or messages from strangers.

Do not click on links, open attachments, or accept gifts from someone you don’t know.

Avoid using public Wi-Fi

Conclusion

Malicious hackers are always on the look-out for innocent targets and children are the easiest. Their approaches are innovative yet simple. It is important for users to stay vigilant, especially children. Understanding cybersecurity and staying up-to-date will help you stay on guard.