Helping Keep Children Safe Online

The internet provides incredible opportunities for learning, communication, and entertainment, but it also presents risks. One of the most important factors in keeping children safe online is active parental involvement. Knowing what your children are doing online and maintaining open communication can help prevent them from becoming victims of scams, exploitation, cyberbullying, and other online threats.

Tips for Parents

Stay Involved

Talk regularly with your children about their online activities, including the websites they visit, apps they use, and the people they communicate with. Encourage them to come to you if they encounter anything that makes them uncomfortable.

Know Their Accounts and Devices

Parents should know what devices their children are using and have access to their social media, gaming, and email accounts when appropriate. Periodically review privacy settings and discuss online safety expectations.

Check Browsing Activity

Review browser history, bookmarks, and downloaded applications to better understand how your child is using the internet. Many devices and internet browsers also offer parental controls that can help monitor activity and limit access to inappropriate content.

Keep Computers and Devices in Common Areas

Whenever possible, place computers and other internet-connected devices in shared family spaces. This helps encourage responsible use and allows parents to remain engaged in their children's online activities.

Teach Safe Sharing Habits

Remind children never to share personal information online, including:

• Home address
• Phone number
• School name
• Passwords
• Financial information
• Real-time location

Discuss Online Strangers

Help children understand that people online are not always who they claim to be. Just because someone seems friendly does not mean they can be trusted. Children should never agree to meet someone they only know online without parental knowledge and supervision.

Monitor Social Media and Gaming Platforms

Many online predators and scammers target children through social media, chat applications, and online games. Be familiar with the platforms your children use and discuss appropriate online behavior and privacy settings.

Watch for Warning Signs

Potential indicators of online safety concerns may include:

• Sudden secrecy about online activity
• Receiving gifts from unknown individuals
• Excessive use of messaging apps or social media
• Changes in behavior, mood, or sleeping habits
• Reluctance to discuss online interactions

Additional Resources

Parents are encouraged to take advantage of parental controls, content filtering tools, and online safety resources available through device manufacturers, internet providers, and schools.

By staying involved, communicating openly, and educating children about online risks, parents can help create a safer online experience for the entire family.