*As parents, you work hard to protect your kids and offer them every advantage possible. They have enough challenges to face without worrying about safety online.
But in today’s world, online safety habits are critical as we divulge some of our most sensitive information online. Teach your kids a few simple concepts so they develop safe internet and social media skills.
1. Always Be Aware
One challenge parents face is how to warn kids about the dangers in the world without causing unnecessary fear.
The web may be a great place to find the latest styles of sneakers or to get woke to today’s pressing issues. But it is also a place where trolls, bullies and dangerous scam artists lurk. A little situational awareness goes a long way online, just like it does offline.
Explain the risks of identity fraud in a way that is simple to understand and isn’t too scary. Family identity fraud is a growing problem because thieves want to steal a child’s financial identity. Sometimes phishers use fun games or quizzes to try to trick people into sharing personal information. They can use that personal data to commit financial or identity fraud.
The last thing you want is to discover an online lowlife ruined your child’s credit rating when you apply for a college loan. Identity protection and monitoring services alert you to any problems. Fortunately, if you catch the problem early you may dispute any fraudulent accounts. A little diligence protects your child’s future.
2. Be Savvy with Social Media
Chances are your kids either live on social media or are counting the days until they are allowed to use their favorite social platform.
Facebook, Snapchat, Instagram, and YouTube offers kids the chance to socialize, share, and create. They can deepen school friendships and make new friends. Unfortunately, it is also where just about anyone who intends harm may lurk.
Once your child has a phone, it is much harder to control social media activities. That is why it is best to start teaching your kids about social media before they carry a smartphone. Here are some topics to discuss:
- Clearly define the difference between private boundaries and public life boundaries. These days the distinction between public and private life is blurred thanks to reality stars like Kim Kardashian and celebrity culture.
- Teach your kids to be selective about who they friend or allow to follow them.
- Each platform has privacy settings that help protect members including kids. For example, Instagram offers a parent’s guide to you tools and information to help your child safely enjoy Instagram.
- Friend or follow your kids on each social platform.
3. Be Wary of Sharing Personal Information
This extends to every website, app, or person your kid encounters online or on the phone. Teach kids which information to avoid sharing. Scammers frequent game platforms, social media, and discussion groups.
4. Don’t Be Shy With the Parental Controls
Social media platforms, internet service providers, and cell phone service providers all offer a range of parental control options. Don’t be shy about using any or all control settings that you feel help protect your children.
5. Establish Rules
Most importantly, establish rules that are appropriate for your kid’s age and awareness. If you have a streetwise teen who is a good judge of character you may offer more online freedom than you would to a more trusting eight-year-old.
Many families keep the family tablet or computer in the living room. This allows parents to subtly observe their child’s online activities. As your child matures, you may choose to allow private computer or phone privileges. In the meantime, take advantage of any teachable moments as an opportunity to educate your kids.
Online safety starts at home. Lead by example to empower your kids to stay safe while using the internet.
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