As a parent, we understand that the safety of our kids is a top priority in our everyday lives. As technology has evolved over the last decade, we find ourselves on the internet more than ever, especially our kids. Whether it’s at home scrolling through games on the app store, or browsing your tablet on the bus, kids are glued to their devices. Nowadays kids are being given electronic devices to complete their homework. So, it’s crucial to keep a close eye on not only our kid’s technology and their online activities, but our own too.
Prepare Your Child
The reality is that we are in a time where technology is, king. Although your child may have received training and education from their teachers and peers, us as guardians are responsible for our kids’ actions in and outside of the classroom. To enhance the safety of your child’s online activity, show them by taking them through the items below, and making them more familiar with these topics:
Passwords: How create a secure, case sensitive password. How and where to store them securely.
Cyberbullying: Explain what it is, how it occurs, and what you can do to help prevent it.
Sexting: Explain the risks of sending and or accepting nude pictures, and then the risk of the content being shared with others.
Education
Continuous training and on-going research help keep you up to date with the latest news and updates. There are several resources across the world that provide content to help parents navigate the internet on behalf of their children. You could even go as far as, social media groups, lots of parents are active in these groups by providing updates on the latest hacks and of suspicious online activity. For parents in Canada that are looking for resources please visit, Protect Kids Online to help keep you up safe online.
Reporting
Whether you’re a victim or not, if you suspect shady activity, it’s best to report it immediately. Cyberattacks are happening far too much lately, the reality is that the suspects are also targeting young children who have less experience on the internet. So, whether it be a Tweet about you on Twitter, or a potential online crime, be sure to report it right away.
At the end of the day, it’s on you as a parent to do your part and stay in the loop with your child’s online activity. Not only is it important to monitor their activity, but more importantly stay up to date with technology and what is going on in the internet world. If you’re on the hunt for some top notch security services, please send us a message so we can help you stay secure.