ESET: As technology occupies an increasingly large role in everyday life, many parents are asked, among their multitude of duties, to include the proper preparation of their children so that they can safely use the Internet.
However, many adults, although they have the latest technology in devices, admit that their understanding of the digital world is not at the levels they would like - for example, the 20% of adults in the UK admit an absence Basic Online Skills (PDF).
This fact worries many parents, as the children τους μυούνται στην τεχνολογία και το διαδίκτυο ολοένα και από μικρότερη ηλικία, οπότε οι ίδιοι δεν αισθάνονται σίγουροι για το πώς μπορούν να διαχειριστούν better this new reality.
As he reveals recently ESET survey, while the majority (88%) of parents are concerned about the websites where their children can access, few parents take significant steps to increase security.
To this end, ESET proposes some useful tips, as a basis of thought and inspiration for parents about the online safety of their children.
1) Familiarization with the Internet and related technology
Nobody expects a parent to have the knowledge of a tech specialist, but it is important to know what he is talking about and understand the tools and websites that are popular in childhood.
Much more should be aware of the possible online risks as indications for online abuse, about the threats faced by Gamers, and of course be familiar with the social media, which is especially popular with adolescents.
2) Initiation in technology and online security as early as possible
Some parents may be cautious about introducing technology, even using the internet from an early age, but if done in a controlled way, you can feel safe.
ESET researcher David Harley even considers this action so vital that it proposes to take place "before the kindergarten", noting that:
"While I do not support giving young children direct and unrestricted access to cyberspace, it is worth trying to give children a gentle, guided introduction: encouraging them to try things, ask questions, and engage in constructive dialogue"
3) Continuous discussion about social media and privacy
This is probably 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 older, it is important to keep the debate on social media "alive", highlighting the central role of these networks in today's life (contact, sharing and learning) and the risks associated with such as harassment by strangers and others online predators
4) Ensure all mobile devices
It is undoubtedly difficult and impractical for a parent to watch out for child of him at all times, especially when he is away from home. The solution to this problem is the parental control applications giving parents the ability to protect their children while using smartphones and tablets, while ensuring that they do not make purchases. Parents can use the settings to reconcile with the age of their child by discussing them about what is best in terms of safety. ESET has designed ESET Parental Control for Android, which protects smart devices, providing security and ease of use, without any limitations in performance.
Of course there are a number of things parents can do to ensure that their children use technology and the Internet safely, but starting with the above tips, they can be rest assured that they have provided a solid foundation for the proper education of their children about with their online protection.
