Cyber Security [Keeping your child safe online]
With the increase in cyber security risks, it is becoming more and more important to be aware of your child’s activities online. The internet is undeniably an excellent source of learning, however, as ground-breaking as it is, the world wide web also has its threats and cyber security risks which can be dangerous if not monitored properly.
Children are curious and know that the internet is clever; capable of answering obscure questions, providing printable templates to colour in and endless-repeatable videos of funny cats or the latest tech hacks for gaming. But what they may not know is anything about viruses, online privacy, phishing and social media etiquette.
It is vitally important to regularly talk to your children about gaming, social media apps and any other online engagement. We can all get complacent and assume devices are being used safely, but sadly statistics in a recent study show that 40% of children have chatted to a stranger online!
You may feel that young children and teenagers are protected by the apparent distance a screen gives, but we have to remember that online is still the real world and that everything we do over the web is captured forever. This is particularly important for adolescents as many employers and university admissions offices look at social media profiles when researching candidates.
There are many things that you can do to try to ensure the safety of your children whilst online and below we have detailed our top tips:
- Enable parental controls on iPads/smartphones and update privacy settings. This will allow you to control what your child can/cannot access online. It also helps keep your computer safe and virus free.
- Create an open conversation with your child/teen about internet usage and safety. This will help them feel more comfortable approaching you with questions about content that they may have come across online.
- Disable Location services. If these are enabled, posts on social media can be tracked – allowing your child’s location to be seen.
- Reinforce with your child the ‘don’t talk to strangers’ rule.
- Keep computers in common areas of the house.
- Know your children’s passwords.
- Check your child’s browsing history and recycle bin to see if any files have been deleted.
- Talk about what personal information can and cannot be shared online.
- Limit screentime and ensure smartphones and iPads are not left in children’s bedrooms at night.
- Finally – keep informed. The internet is ever changing, and technology is only getting more advanced. Try and stay ahead. Research new programs and sites before allowing your child to use them.
Contact Us if you would like further advice or information on cyber security. Our cyber specialists provide full-spectrum information security expertise and services to leading businesses, high-profile and UHNW private individuals and families.