Tips for protecting children in the online environment from ESET

As technology occupies an increasing role in everyday life, many parents are invited, among the crowd of their duties, to integrate and to properly prepare their children to use the internet safely. However, many adults, even though they have the latest technology in appliances, admit that their understanding of the digital world is not at the levels they want-for example, 20% of adults in Britain admits lack basic online skills.

This worries many parents, as their children are initiated in technology and the Internet increasingly from an early age, so they do not feel confident about how to better manage this new reality.

Reveals latest survey by ESET, while the majority (88%) of parents concerned about their websites where they can gain access to their children, few take effective measures to increase security. To this end, the ESET suggests some useful advice, as thought and inspiration based on their parents about the online safety of their children.

Familiarity with the Internet and related technology

Nobody expects a parent to have the knowledge of a specialist in technology, but it is important to know what to speak and understand the tools and websites that are popular in children's ages. Much more should be aware of potential online risks, such as indications for online abuse, the threats faced by gamers and of course be familiar with social media, which is very popular especially among teenagers.

Initiation to technology and online security as early as possible

Some parents may be skeptical about the introduction of technology, even using the internet from a young age, but if done in a controlled way, you can feel safe. The researcher ESET David Hurley even considers this action so vital, so proposes that "before kindergarten", noting that: "Although I do not support to be given to young children, immediate and unrestricted access to cyberspace, it is worth trying to give children a gentle, guided introduction: to encourage them to try things, ask questions, and engage in constructive dialogue. "

Continuous discussion on social media and privacy

It is perhaps the most difficult task in terms of balancing good practices and oppression, and it is up to each parent to determine the boundaries between the two. However, as children grow, it is important to keep alive the debate on social media, through the labeling of the central role of these networks in modern life, but also the risks associated with them, such as harassment by strangers.

Meanwhile, highlighting the importance of privacy for security reasons, informing the children that sharing personal information should be limited in the use of social media is necessary, because this information can be easily copied and distributed, even after the original post has been deleted.

Protection of all mobile devices

Undoubtedly it is difficult and impractical it is for a parent to watch their child at any time, more so when they are away from home. In this problem the solution is the parental control applications (parental control) that give parents the ability to protect their children while using smartphones and tablets, while having confidence that will not make purchases. Parents can use settings that are consistent with the age of their child, talking with them about what is best in terms of safety.