12 Easy Tips for Parents to Teach Children About Internet Privacy

Internet Privacy Tips for Parents

All parents want to protect their children – offline and online. But it can be hard to know what to teach your kids about Internet dangers. When it comes to Internet privacy, we have a few tips to get you started!

Most of us have heard about data breaches that occur online and the ways our activity can be tracked. However, it’s not something we think about every time we log on to our email or search for recipes. Unfortunately, when it comes to our kids, it’s even more important that they’re aware of sharing information online! As online activity is often not secure, kids and parents alike should monitor their Internet privacy.

What Is Internet Privacy and Why Is It Important?

Many of us live out our online lives not thinking too much about what’s going on in the background. But, Internet privacy has become a significant issue in recent years. With so much personal information, the data that can be accrued simply by going online is immense. If we buy items or share information online, our passwords or social security number can be used against us. Our information can also be sold and used to focus on advertising towards us that’s aligned with our data profile. For these reasons, it’s important to be aware of data tracking and prioritize online privacy. Share your Internet security tips with other parents on your favorite family app!

How Do I Teach My Child About Internet Safety?

It can be hard to know where to begin with keeping your kids protected online. Fortunately, the following tips will get them started on the pathway to online privacy and security.

1. Voice Online Privacy Concerns

Kids need rules in order to know what they should and shouldn’t do. Ensure your child is aware of how their personal data might be collected whether they’re web surfing or buying an app. You can also set security parameters on their app downloads, so they have to get your approval before downloading anything. Encourage them to bring something into question when it seems odd and make sure they know you are always there to answer. Share your tips for broaching this conversation with others on FamilyApp!

2. Be Aware of What to Share

Whether they’re buying a game or joining social networks, kids can be asked a lot of questions concerning their personal information. Unfortunately, they might not know which ones they should answer. Give them parameters for what they can and can’t divulge. Usually, less is more!

3. Use a Password for Online Privacy

Passwords are a necessary part of creating an online account. However, some kids make passwords that are too easy to crack. Online privacy best practices are all about having a strong password. It’s also a good idea to encourage your children to have passwords on their mobile devices.

4. Cyber Safety: Provide Limitations

Social media is a big part of teen life these days. Unfortunately, that can mean that many kids overshare personal information and inadvertently make themselves a target. Make them aware of online privacy issues and what might come back to haunt them.

5. Talk About Text

It’s easy to forget that what we say through a messaging service isn’t always really private. That’s why it’s even easier for kids to forget that their information might be shared. Ensure that personal details, if required, are disclosed in a secure fashion. Choose FamilyApp as a safe option to protect all your communication and keep it completely encrypted and private.

6. Beware of Strangers on the Internet

Whether it’s through chat or a message board, kids may get to know others in the online world. However, these people are still strangers. Ensure your child takes online privacy measures and doesn’t share their personal information with someone they’ve never met. Empower them to say no when someone asks for photos or personal data like their last name, address or telephone number.

7. Avoid Clickbait for Internet Privacy

It’s pretty easy to get lost on the web by searching for one thing and finding another. However, it’s important to teach your kids about what they should and shouldn’t click on. Many things won’t be what they say they are.

8. Have the Data Talk

Young kids might only need the basics, but your children should know more about online privacy as they get older. Since companies use data that’s shared online, your kids should be aware of the implications of browser use. With older children that will start their own life soon, you should also talk about the risks of online shopping and payment.

9. Pay Attention to Their Social Media Presence

If your child is already aware of what to share, it can be easier to teach them about online relationships. Peer pressure is pretty common so talk to your kids about the differences between digital and real life. Also, empower your children to say no when someone they only know online wants to meet them alone in real life. Remind them that sexting or sending any type of explicit photos is illegal, and the information they send out can remain in the digital world forever.

10. Be a Good Internet Privacy Role Model

Many parents want their kids to be savvy on the Internet, but they don’t follow online privacy tips themselves! Ensure you’re a good mentor for your child by guarding your privacy. Share your tips for being a good role model on your favorite family app!

11. Don’t Just Download

Unless your child is downloading something from a well-known website or manufacturer, they should be cautious. Oftentimes, downloads can come with viruses so teach them to be on guard.

12. Talk About Internet Privacy

One of the best ways to ensure that your child learns about the Internet is to talk about online privacy issues. Make sure you are aware of what’s going on in the world so they can be knowledgeable about it too!

Kids will be kids and that’s just the way it is. But, when it comes to the Internet, make security a top priority for your children! By explaining how the Internet works and developing good habits, your kids can protect their privacy. Do you have any tips for maintaining online privacy? Share them with other parents in our comments! It’s hard to avoid the Internet so taking on a proactive approach to privacy is the best solution.

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