The online world is a source of endless entertainment, information, and business opportunities. However, it’s also a place that conceals a whole range of threats. The young people of today will have a very different, and likely much closer, relationship with the internet than their parents and grandparents. As such, it’s vital that those young people are protected and informed.
But, if you’re a parent, you might wonder exactly how to provide your children with the right guidance, and protect them against the worst that the modern internet has to offer. Let’s take a look at a few effective measures.
Start with Honest Conversations
An age-appropriate conversation, or series of conversations, can help to ensure that you and your children are on the same page. They should understand that the restrictions you place on their online behaviour are intended to benefit them in the long term. Don’t be tempted to monitor everything that they do online, and make sure that they feel comfortable approaching you when they see things that make them feel uncomfortable.
Strengthen Your Password Habits
If your passwords are weak, then hackers will have an easier time breaking into your accounts. Often, the best approach is to check whether your passwords appear on a list of compromised ones.
In the modern era, password generator (or password manager) can be an indispensable help. This will ensure that every password you come up with is strong, and that you won’t end up using the same ones over and over again for different accounts.
Set Device Limits That Actually Work
Imposing a blanket ban on screens and mobile devices can be effective up to a point. But the fact is that your children are eventually going to be exposed to technology, and thus it makes sense for this exposure to occur in a controlled environment.
Make sure that you take sleep hygiene seriously, and that you forbid the use of screens in the hours leading up to bed. You might program your WiFi so that it automatically cuts out after a certain period (unless, of course, you’re an adult with the password).
Watch Out for Suspicious Links and Downloads
Phishing remains a prevalent threat. If you click on the wrong link, or enter sensitive information into the wrong online form, then you risk compromising your accounts. Make sure that every member of your family is aware of the risks, and that they aren’t about to be tricked by an unsolicited message – even if it appears genuine.
Use Parental Controls—but Don’t Rely on Them Alone
Parental controls are a powerful means of controlling what children see and do on the internet. But if your children are sufficiently tech-savvy, and they don’t understand exactly why the controls are in place, then they might find a way around them. As such, it’s important to maintain an ongoing dialogue.
