In today’s digital age, the internet has become an indispensable tool for our children, transforming how they conduct school research, communicate with teachers, stay connected with friends and family, and explore their interests. With the widespread use of smartphones, laptops, and other technologies, our younger generation enjoys seamless online connectivity, anytime and anywhere. While these advancements offer remarkable opportunities for learning and growth, they also expose our children to a myriad of cyber risks, including cyberbullying, phishing, identity theft, scams, and online predators.
A recent study by Surfshark in 2022 highlighted a concerning reality for parents in the Philippines: our country ranks second worldwide regarding children’s susceptibility and exposure to cyber threats, trailing only Thailand and ahead of Turkey. As the back-to-school season approaches, it’s more important than ever for parents to ensure their children are equipped with the knowledge and tools to navigate the internet safely.
Best Practices for Online Safety
Fortinet, a global leader in cybersecurity, shares vital tips to help parents teach their children about good cyber hygiene and staying safe online.
1. Access secure connections and links
One of the simplest yet most effective steps to safeguard your child’s online experience is to ensure they use secure connections. Teach them to look for https:// in the URL and a small lock symbol on the left side of the address bar before entering any personal information. These indicators signify that the connection is secure and that their data is safe from prying eyes.
Additionally, instill a habit of skepticism towards suspicious links and offers that seem too good to be true. Such links can harbor malware or lead to malicious websites designed to steal information. Encourage them to always read the fine print about privacy settings on websites or applications to understand how their data will be used.
2. Use strong passwords and multi-factor authentication
Passwords are the first line of defense against cyber threats. Teach your children to create strong, unique passwords for each of their online accounts. A good password is easy to remember but hard for others to guess. Avoid using easily identifiable information like birthdays or favorite sports teams. Instead, encourage the use of a combination of numbers, symbols, and both uppercase and lowercase letters.
To further protect their accounts, enable multi-factor authentication (MFA). This adds an extra layer of security by requiring a second form of verification, such as a code sent to their phone, in addition to their password.
3. Keep devices and applications updated
Cybercriminals often exploit vulnerabilities in outdated software to gain access to personal data. Regularly updating devices and applications ensures that these vulnerabilities are patched and that the latest security features are in place. Make it a routine to check for updates and install them promptly.
4. Be cautious when sharing information online
It’s crucial to teach your children about the permanence of online content. Once something is posted, it can be difficult to completely remove it. Encourage them to think twice before sharing personal details, photos, or videos. Remind them that cybercriminals can use this information for malicious purposes, such as identity theft or scams.
Also, educate them about the dangers of interacting with strangers online. Cybercriminals can easily pose as friends or acquaintances to trick them into revealing sensitive information. Make sure they know to share any uncomfortable interactions with a trusted adult immediately.
Enhancing Cybersecurity Awareness
To help parents and children alike navigate the complex world of online safety, Fortinet offers a comprehensive training curriculum through the Fortinet Training Institute. The Network Security Expert (NSE) program includes free, self-paced courses designed to build cybersecurity awareness among students, parents, and educators. These courses, NSE 1 and NSE 2, provide valuable knowledge to help protect against evolving cyber threats.
Creating a Safe Digital Environment
By fostering a culture of cybersecurity awareness and practicing good cyber hygiene, we can empower our children to safely and responsibly explore the digital world. As parents, it’s our responsibility to equip them with the tools and knowledge to protect themselves from cybercriminals. The internet offers incredible opportunities for learning and growth, but we must remain vigilant to ensure our children can navigate it safely.
Let’s make this back-to-school season not just about academic preparation, but also about preparing our children to face and overcome the cyber challenges that come with our increasingly connected world. By taking proactive steps and utilizing the resources available, we can create a safer online environment for the younger generation.
Stay informed, stay secure, and most importantly, stay connected with your kids as they embark on their digital journeys. Together, we can keep them safe from the hidden dangers of the internet.
Details provided in a recent press release.
Header image by Lifestylememory on Freepik
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