**Teenagers and the Dark Side of the Internet: How to Keep Your Child Safe**
In recent years, the internet has become an integral part of our lives, providing endless opportunities for learning, creativity, and socialization. However, with the rise of artificial intelligence-powered chatbots, online scammers, and predators, teenagers are increasingly vulnerable to dangers lurking in the digital world.
The devastating stories of a 14-year-old who committed suicide after following an AI chatbot’s advice and another family who sued a company for telling an autistic 14-year-old to kill his parents are heartbreaking reminders of the risks children face online.
As parents, it’s essential to acknowledge that our children’s online experiences are not limited to just social media. Youngsters are equally susceptible to fraud, blackmail, and exploitation through online gaming, influencer marketing, and even sexting.
**The Most Popular Scams and Tricks**
Here are some of the most common tactics used by scammers to deceive teenagers:
1. **Under the influence**: Scammers target children who idolize online influencers by setting up fake accounts and running competitions that trick them into handing over personal details or money.
2. **”Hey, handsome guy”**: Scammers use photos of attractive teenagers or 20-somethings to play a digital Casanova game, requesting money, gifts, or messages.
3. **”Send me a photo”**: Scammers blackmail victims who share explicit photos or videos, threatening to share the content with everyone the victim knows.
4. **”You win!”… No**: Teenagers are tricked into giving away credit card details or downloading malware under the guise of rewards for their favorite games.
**What Can You Do?**
While the internet is a valuable resource, it’s crucial to acknowledge the dangers and take proactive measures to keep your child safe:
1. **Promote open and honest communication**: Encourage your child to come to you if they encounter anything suspicious or uncomfortable online.
2. **Set clear ground rules**: Establish limits on screen time and device use, and use built-in app controls and content filters to monitor your child’s online activities.
3. **Stay connected**: Monitor your child’s social media accounts and conversations, and be aware of their online interactions.
4. **Learn about special settings**: Familiarize yourself with special settings and features on popular social media platforms, such as Snapchat and Instagram.
**Parent Action Plan**
To protect your child from online dangers, consider the following:
1. **Get their phone’s passcode**: Gain access to your child’s phone to monitor their activities and ensure their safety.
2. **Set limits**: Use built-in app controls and content filters to limit your child’s exposure to inappropriate material.
3. **”Friend” or “follow” them**: Stay connected with your child on social media and monitor their online activities.
4. **Learn about special settings**: Familiarize yourself with special settings and features on popular social media platforms.
**Conclusion**
As parents, it’s our responsibility to protect our children from the dark side of the internet. By promoting open communication, setting clear boundaries, and staying connected with our children, we can help them navigate the digital world safely. Remember, the best protection is to be your child’s go-to resource for help and guidance.
