YOURLIFE
THREE-QUARTERS of parents think the internet is dangerous for kids, but few know how to set up adequate safety controls, says new research. Here’s the latest safe tech advice…
“With new techno threats emerging at a frightening rate, it’s clear we need to be doing more to protect our children from violent or sexual images, as well as sites and apps where online bullying or grooming can take place,” warns parenting expert Barbara Sullivan.
David Emm, principal security researcher at web security company Kaspersky Lab, adds: “Parents must remember to child-proof their online world.”
If you’re concerned, try these easy new ways to make your devices safe. apps, some of which encourage users to talk to strangers.
Ask them to tell you their favourite apps and what they use them for – or look them up online yourself. You should also check the privacy settings and permissions of any apps your kids download. It’s a good idea to install parental controls on all devices your kids have access to as a first line of defence. But you can now control the entire home network using one nifty device.
Try Circle with Disney (£99, from Amazon). This small white cube pairs with your home wi-fi and lets you manage every device connected to the network, tailor parental controls and even set time limits for net usage. “You need to think about what message you’re sending out to your kids if you continue posting multiple pictures of your family on Facebook and Instagram,” says Barbara.
If you’re a prolific family photo poster, be aware this could send out a message to your children that online sharing is safe.
Sort your privacy settings so that only selected friends can see your posts – and show your kids what you’re doing and why.
Kids need to realise that people online aren’t always what they seem and they must never share their details
Recent US research found that 55% of kids had online friends their parents didn’t know about.
Only allow them to use social apps and games designed for kids – all popular games such as Roblox and Animal Jam have built-in features and safety settings.