Cyber-Security for Kids

The internet can be a scary place for an adult, let alone a child. But it is possible for kids to use the internet safely and responsibly if care is taken to ensure that their internet is monitored and regulated, and they avoid high-risk areas and behaviors. Here are some important considerations for dealing with cyber-security and kids:

• Enable Parental Controls: Most browsers have parental controls built in that can be enabled, limiting what your child is able to access online. While this isn't a perfect solution, it is a good first step. There are also external parental control software from reputable providers that can be customized to suit you and your child's needs.
• Communicate Good Practices: Your child needs to understand why cyber-security is important. As soon as they're old enough to access online material, they're old enough to understand some of the potential dangers of the internet. Explain to your child why responsible and limited usage is for their protection.
• Limit Web Usage: The internet is vast, mysterious, and full of secrets. While this can be very exciting for a child, it's also potentially quite dangerous. Limiting your child's usage of the internet both in time spent and in websites that can be accessed will limit your child's exposure to some of the more harmful elements online.
• Monitor Your Child's Web Activity: No one likes to spy on their child, but it is critical that you know what websites your child is accessing.
• Monitor Your Device And Look For Changes: Make sure you're taking stock of any new programs or scripts installed on devices your child uses, as well as potential signs of a virus infection or installed spyware or adware.

With these considerations in mind, there's no reason your child shouldn't be able to responsibly and comfortably access the internet.