CAN WE EVER BE SAFE ONLINE?
The story on page 26 of today’s issue will strike fear into the heart of any parent. Lorin Bednar’s son Breck was murdered by an online predator when he was just 14 years old. Lewis Daynes lured the teen to his house after months of communication online, during which he pretended to be a computer engineer with a multi-million euro company. Breck was attracted to his stories of trips to the Middle East and New York, and was obviously flattered when Daynes told him he was dying and wanted Breck to take over the company. What’s most horrifying to me about this story is that Lorin did everything she possibly could, everything the experts tell you to do – and yet her son still ended up dead. She talked to Breck regularly about his interactions with Daynes, she spoke to the parents of other children in the online group, she confiscated his computer and even went to the police. But it was all to no avail. At a time when all of us, including children, are spending more time than ever communicating online, it’s so hard to know how to keep them safe. I guess the most vital part is to keep the channels of communication open – talk to them regularly, ask them questions, get them to explain to you the apps they’re using and why, what they allow them to do and what kind of access they give others to their private information. There is no one set of rules that, if followed, will ensure safety, but informing them of all the dangers and encouraging them to tell you if anything they see or hear online sounds off is a good starting point. As sad as Lorin’s story is, how she and her triplet daughters have used Breck’s death as a way to tell other teens about the dangers facing them is inspirational. Their story deserves to be heard.
Our cover star today is another inspirational woman. Former athlete Derval O’Rourke has been developing a wellness brand in the years since her retirement from sport, and it just so happens that it is the perfect foil to the current lockdown. From fitness to recipes and suggestions to pass the time, Derval.ie has a range of things to make staying in a bit more palatable but, best of all, there’s no preaching or targets, just tips and tricks to keep us all sane. Perfect!
Enjoy the issue.