5 Online Dangers Moms Can Protect Their Kiddos From
Increased technology allows our children to learn about different parts of the world, research for school and interact with friends. With constant access to online chatting, email and connecting on social media, there is a possibility that your child may become a victim of cyber bullying and other online dangers. Cyber bullying is using technology to intimidate, bully and harass others. Recent statistics suggest that 1 in 3 young people experience cyber threats online. And more than 25 percent of teens and adolescents experience bullying over their cell phones. Moms need to take the appropriate measures to protect their children from the perils of technology. Here are five dangers that children might encounter online and the measures Moms can take to prevent them:
Inappropriate Content
With the tap of a few letters on the keyboard or mobile phone, kids can access websites, images and information that may be highly inappropriate for their maturity level. Violent and pornographic images can appear even if the child’s Internet search is about something completely benign and unrelated. Moms can install blocking, filtering, monitoring systems to restrict sites with adult content, as well as limit the number of pop-up ads. Purchase a software program like Net Nanny to help create the necessary blocks. In addition, moms should converse with their kids and define inappropriate content so both parent and child are on the same page. Keep tabs on where your child can access a computer, since not all sources will be equipped with blocking software. Lastly, let your child know that if they do encounter inappropriate content they can approach you to discuss it if the situation warrants it.
Damaged Reputation
The quickness of technology sometimes works against children. Some may post a provocative photo without forethought of the consequences. Once it is posted and even if it is deleted, there is a chance that a friend or stranger might have already copied the picture. Have a candid conversation with your kids and alert them to the dangers of posting pictures on social media websites These become a permanent part of their digital history. Also, warn children that if their friends decide to take pictures that might be unflattering or embarrassing request that they not be posted online.
Cyber Threats
The bullying that occurs online may take on several forms that can include: death threats, harassment, spreading malicious lies and damaging a child or teen’s reputation. What can a mom do if her child is a victim of cyber bullying or threats? If the harassment is occurring over email, direct your child to change their email address. In addition, advise kids not to share their passwords with friends. Also, if the harassment occurs on social media, you can teach your child to block or ban that person from viewing his or her profile or sending messages. If the harassment is serious and the threats continue, involve your local police department. Ample resources on cyber bullying are available at StopBullying.gov.
Sexual Predators
Unfortunately sexual predators will prey on children online because it is an easy way for them to gain the trust of an unsuspecting child. Predators will frequent chat rooms and also peruse social media sites. Moms need to monitor their children’s activities in chat rooms and on the networking sites. In addition, ask the kids to refrain from putting personal information, like addresses, school information or phone numbers online for any person to access. Advise kids not to send photos to people who they meet online. Employ privacy settings to block a certain demographic from viewing your child’s profile.
Identity Theft
General data theft is a growing concern not only for adults, but for children too. Thieves are savvy enough to amass information online and possibly steal identities to make purchases or conduct other unlawful business. Recent statistics from Norton Family Report points out that 62 percent of children respond to online scams. This is too high a risk for moms not to employ some identity protections on their child’s identity, as well as your own.
Increased use of computers and mobile phones will increase the risk of cyber bullying as well as other online dangers. Children can be protected by taking the necessary protections to ensure their online safety.
