NATIONWIDE — It’s no secret that children are spending more time online than before, especially with all of the e-learning taking place right now amid the coronavirus pandemic.
- Kids using internet more as school turns virtual
- With so many children online for extended periods, risk increases
- Project iGuardian designed to teach kids safe practices
That’s why federal officials are warning parents about an online threat that they say is very real, giving them tips on how to protect children.
Homeland Security Investigations Acting Special Agent in Charge Kevin Sibley says that while the internet is helpful, it can also be a dangerous for children.
“I think the internet is the greatest advances in our technology, (but) it’s also one of the most dangerous things,” Sibley said. “And just know that every time you bring a smart device into your home, you’re opening up your home to the entire world.”
Sibley detailed some of the dangers.
“The cases are extreme. I mean they could range from encouraging a child to send a sexually explicit photograph of themselves, which could quickly spiral out of control, to much worse behavior.”
He said his agency normally sees disturbing cases, but with so many children online for extended periods of time right now, that increases the risk.
But there is some good news for parents.
Homeland Security has a website with tools and tips for parents. Project iGuardian helps children, teens, and parents be smarter about online safety to protect them from online sexual predators. Here's what they suggest:
- Review and approve games and apps before they are downloaded.
- Make sure privacy settings are set to the strictest level possible for online gaming systems and electronic devices.
- Monitor your children’s use of the internet; keep electronic devices in an open, common room of the house.
- Check your children’s profiles and what they post online.
- Explain to your children that images posted online will be permanently on the internet.
- Make sure children know that anyone who asks a child to engage in sexually explicit activity online should be reported to a parent, guardian, or other trusted adult, as well as law enforcement.
There are also animated videos for younger children to help explain the dangers and safety tips.