Cyber Security for children
1. Shield your Child from Cyber Crime is important in digital era it’s nearly impossible to keep kids out of the internet these days. After COVID-19 pandemic situation all the school and collages are closed and short span of time the use of internet for the online classes for children is started which is increased day by day. Unfortunately, it’s not all academia and family connections the internet can be a risky place, especially for children. Hence the cyber security issues are once again emphasized in our country and also worldwide. Henceforward parents needs to monitor the online activities of the children for that few commendations are discussed below.
Decide where your child can go and can’t go on Internet.
2. On the internet we are on global village and anyone can go anywhere anytime. Limited access of internet should be given to the children. It can be defined with the parental feature available in various Antivirus software. Regularly check the browsing history as well as computer/ Laptop history.
Fortify your computer with strong security software/ hardware
3. Securing of the computer with IDS (Intrusion Detection System), IPS(Intrusion Prevention System) & BDS (Behaviour Detection System) enabled antivirus software. Local cyber threats after Q1 2020 has been increased due use of unauthorized USB drives. Hence Locking/ blocking of USB ports is also helping to fortifying your computer.
Exposure to inappropriate content
4. Inappropriate content is one of the most common online threats that kids encounter. Everything from vulgar language and hate speech to graphically violent or sexual images can have a harmful act on an impressionable child. Over 55% of tweens (kids aged 10–12) have been exposed to violent content on the internet, and nearly 60% have come across sexually explicit words or images.
How to Protect your Kids From Inappropriate Online Content
5. Teach kids how to navigate the internet – Talk about proper online etiquette, how to enter safe search terms, how to identify a secure website (https), and when to ask an parents for help.
6. Let kids know what to watch for – Teach them that bad situation can come from many sources, including email and direct messages. Talk about pop-up ads and when and where it’s okay to click on something.
7. Explain email safety – Make sure kids know not to click on things or open attachments in emails, and not to respond to messages from people they don’t know. Have them contact an adult before they download anything.
8. Set up firewalls and content blockers – Use the built-in safety applications that
come on your devices and add more to be extra-safe. Block all websites that aren’t rated safe for children. Use a content filter or firewall that is designed to protect children from harmful content.
9. Keep a watchful eye – For kids do not give Laptop or tablet for online studies. Allow to use them a Personal Computer & Place the computer in a common room and monitor all screen time. Use a shared email account, and if you let kids interact on social media, make sure you have full access to manage their accounts. Parental control software is another great way to stay in the know.
10. Set boundaries – Put time limits on screen time. Include all online activities from homework to playing games and surfing the web. Restrict social media access and email accounts, and set rules for any IM, texting, etc. Let your kids know you’ll be checking in regularly. Do not encourage your child to join social media below the age of 18. Do not allow your children various social media sites. Remainder your child not talk to strangers online as well as Don’t allow kids to fill online forms and surveys. Teach your kids to ignore emails and instant messages from unknown people. Aware the children for cyber security.