No matter how wonderful the internet is, there are some scary aspects of it as well. There are hackers who are constantly trying to attack you in a variety of ways, controversial false information circulating, and uncensored, explicit content that isn’t fit for adults let alone children.
But it is also a resource for learning, entertainment, and growth. Parents are not only faced with the pressures of selecting what content that is appropriate for their kids to see, there are studies that show the number of time children spends on electronic devices also plays a role in their development.
If there are too many good things that can probably be not so good. Just like everything in life, balance is the key to using our digital world to our benefit and for the safety and security of our children.
Here are 5 easy ways to keep your kids safe online.
1. Act as A Responsible Online Guardian: Information is powerful. Get involved and be aware of what your children, no matter what age are viewing online. Share the potential dangers they face online and give them examples of what is and what isn’t ok. Make it a “learning experience” more than a scary experience.
Talk to your kids and explain that there are ways to stay safe online just as you teach them to be safe when playing outside. Ask your child to let you see what they are watching and doing online and don’t be afraid to ask questions so they know you want to keep them safe.
2. Keep Your Online Exposure Private: Consider installing a VPN, virtual private network that secures your internet connection to guarantee all of your data is encrypted and secured from hackers. There are many sources available.
There are also parental filters and software that you can install that limit the amount of screen time and block the sites you don’t want your children to have access to. There are also security measures you can take for mobile devices used outside the home.
NEXT: Watch Your Kids Online – The More You Know
Susan McCullah is an established writer who has created dozens of informative articles about credit scoring, identity theft, budgeting, taxes, debt, and finance. She has worked in the Credit Reporting industry for 15+ years and is FCRA certified. Susan regularly conducts in-person presentations and webinars on the topics of credit scoring formulation, raising credit scores, and identity theft.
