They can also post private information about themselves and of their parents that can put everybody at risk of scams, malware, and other criminal activities. There are no delete buttons on the Internet, and it can make life difficult for them. Third, children and teens can post photos and videos that can haunt them later in life. This can make it harder for parents and guardians to differentiate between beneficial and dangerous activities. They are being targeted in more sites, too, from gaming platforms to social media sites. They then take advantage of their gullibility that can result in inappropriate online behavior, such as performing obscene acts or posting nude photos.Ĭhildren are also more vulnerable during the pandemic, partly because of the increased amount of time spent online. Second, pedophiles and other sexual predators use the Internet to stalk children. There are six forms of cyberbullying cited in the study, including offensive name-calling, spreading of false rumors, and physical threats, which can happen simultaneously and frequently. In a Pew Research study, about 90% of teens say that online harassment or cyberbullying affects people their age, while 63% of them believe that it’s a serious issue. the dangers of online activity that children, teens, and parents should be aware of…įirst, there’s cyberbullying. Of course, it’s essential to use terms and give concrete examples that young people will understand. In the end, parents should discuss the basics of online safety, the hazards associated with online activity, and their consequences with their children and teens. While installing one or two of the best cybersecurity software is recommended, these aren’t 100% fool-proof where children are concerned. Many of these malware allows cybercriminals the opportunity to access bank accounts, steal identities, and perform other criminal activities that expose parents to financial loss. Children are not the only ones at risk…Ĭhildren can also expose their families, albeit unwittingly and unwillingly, to a wide range of Internet threats, including malware downloads. We have read of young people dying by their own hands due to cyberbullying and over their social media posts. Online hazards are aplenty, and the emotional costs to children and teens can be severe, and the consequences can be tragic. Parents must take on the responsibility of monitoring their children’s online activity and, often, their physical locations. While it provides timely, relevant, and reliable information, it’s also a dangerous place to be for everybody!īut children and teens are particularly vulnerable because of their gullibility and curiosity, not to mention their ignorance or dismissal of basic online safety protocols.
0 Comments
Leave a Reply. |