Some parents may feel that it is a violation of their children’s privacy to track their children’s online activities, but when considering the potential threat it might be a good idea to track their behavior to protect them, not to spy on them. One of the most important tips for children to learn about online safety is that digital footprints last a long time and they shouldn’t post anything they wouldn’t want others to see forever. Many companies review social media platforms when interviewing candidates and if the content doesn’t align with their brand, they will likely move forward with other potential candidates. Depending on the age of a child, some may be naïve to think certain content is safe because they are posting in a private chat, but screenshots can be taken of any content and shared on all social media sites.
Listed below are tips from the National Children’s Advocacy Center:1
- Never post personal information (phone number, address, location) on any social media sites
- Never meet in person with anyone you first “met” on the internet
- Do not post inappropriate pictures of anyone
- Never respond to mean or rude texts, messages, and e-mails
- Never share your password with anyone
- Do not download software on your computer or cell phone before checking with your parents
- If anything makes you feel uncomfortable online, talk with your parents right away
United Nations International Children’s Emergency Fund (UNICEF) recommends that parents ensure their children’s devices are always updated and running the latest software; turn on privacy settings and configure them to minimize data collection; teach children that if their privacy settings are not secure, anyone can see their information; and keep webcams covered when not in use.2
Parental controls and apps are also a great way to further protect children’s online activities. Google’s Safe Search is a custom search engine that blocks potentially harmful material at home and in schools.3 Qustodio creates a risk-free environment for your kids online and provides peace of mind by allowing parents to easily monitor and manage their kids’ activity on all devices.4 FamilyTime offers digital well-being solutions for every age group to help parents deal with the diverse challenges of digital parenting.5 Bark scans children’s text messages, 30+ social media apps, web browsers, emails, and other online activity, keeping parents informed and their children protected.6 If you are interested in becoming a member and gaining access to our Resource Center ($10/month or $99/annually), visit https://advocatefortheinnocent.org/memberships/ to learn more.
1 – https://www.nationalcac.org/internet-safety-tips/
2 – https://www.unicef.org/parenting/child-care/keep-your-child-safe-online
3 – https://www.safesearchkids.com/google-kids/
4 – https://www.qustodio.com/en/
5 – https://familytime.io/
6 – https://www.bark.us/?utm_source=aw&utm_medium=paid-search&utm_campaign=website-brandedgoogle&utm_content=46385868617&utm_term=e&gad_source=1&gclid=Cj0KCQjw4MSzBhC8ARIsAPFOuyUSBuK8JqJ8UEl6qIQbAEHB0lixA w_dRPgVDFfvvTRFjQoA878Ni5caAimMEALw_wcB