The FBI warns parents that the risk of child cybercrime could be even greater this school year.
Even though children already spend quite a lot of time online, the pandemic has increased this time even more. The FBI says that criminals will likely try to capitalize on the pandemic and the fact that many children are e-learning and will start relationships with kids who are spending more time online.
Experts warn that predators usually start the relationship via social media by pretending to be someone younger to gain the child’s trust. They will often groom kids before asking them to send inappropriate material and then blackmail them in order to get more graphic content.
NordPass has collected some tips and tricks so that parents can teach their children about internet privacy and safety.
1. Educate on the importance of passwords.
Chad Hammond, a security expert from NordPass, emphasizes the importance of teaching children good password habits. “Besides knowing about all the good things the internet can offer, children should also learn about the risks that come with it. There are many educational resources online, including videos, which children often prefer to other types of media.”
As children are also more receptive to technology, it’s a good idea to encourage them to try new tools. For instance, password generators or managers could help them handle their passwords safely.
2. Keep the computer in the living room
If possible, keep the computer in common areas of the house, such as the living room. This way, parents can monitor their child’s activity online by simply walking past.
3. Set an example and become digital-literate yourself.
Show how you communicate and stay safe online but try not to push your opinion. Also, kids love when you know what’s up and you can discuss that popular social media platform together.
4. Explain why privacy matters, especially when talking to strangers.
Talk to your kids about privacy and explain why they shouldn’t overshare on social media platforms. Tell them (but don’t try to scare them) that internet bad guys can use their address, school location, parents’ workplace, and other info against them. Explain that what goes on the internet, stays on the internet. Nothing is ever 100% private, and the online past can have a bad effect on your child’s image. Teach your children how to manage their privacy settings so they can choose who they want to show their information to.
5. Talk to them about cyberbullying.
Tell your child about cyberbullying so they can recognize it. Show how to block unwanted people or report inappropriate actions online.
6. Talk about ads and online offers.
Nothing is ever for free. Teach your child to be careful about deals that look too good to be true. Ask them to show you everything they are planning to buy or redeem. Some offers may be scams designed to extract private information or money.
7. Install games and apps together.
Make sure you download all games and apps from secure sources. Also, check that both the app and its provider are reputable. Fake pop-ups often prompt kids to install various applications for free. But that may result in malware infecting the device or the whole home network.
ABOUT NORDPASS
NordPass is a new-generation password manager shaped with cutting-edge technology, zero-knowledge encryption, simplicity, and intuitive design in mind. It securely stores and organizes passwords by keeping them in one convenient place. NordPass was created by the cybersecurity experts behind NordVPN — one of the most advanced VPN service providers in the world. For more information: nordpass.com.
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