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Writer's pictureAthena Worldwide

10 Essential Tips your children need to know for Online Safety

Updated: Jun 3, 2023

Parents! In today's digital age, it's crucial to equip our children with the knowledge and skills to stay safe online. Here are ten essential tips to teach your children, empowering them to navigate the digital world while protecting their well-being and giving you peace of mind!




1) Keep all your personal information private: Never share your full name, address, phone number, school name, or other sensitive details online, especially with strangers. (Even friends you've made online can be 'strangers' because all you may have seen of them is a pic, and that can be faked.)


2) Create strong and unique passwords: Use passwords that are not easy to guess and avoid using the same password for multiple accounts. You can use a combination of letters, numbers, and symbols. Randomly change them from time to time as well. Ask your parents to help you.


3) Think before sharing: Be cautious about what you share online, whether it's text, photos, or videos. You must always consider the potential consequences and respect others' privacy. (What you share online is potentially open to EVERYONE online, particularly in the hands of the wrong people!)


4) Be mindful of online 'friends': Be skeptical of online friendships and only connect with people you know in real life and trust. Do not share personal information or meet online friends in person without parental permission. (You never know who you might be 'meeting'!)

5) Recognize and report cyberbullying: It is very important to treat others with respect online, and you should be treated respectfully as well. If you identify signs of cyberbullying, report the case to a trusted adult or authority figure.


6) Avoid suspicious links and downloads: Do not click on unfamiliar links, do not download files from unknown sources, or open email attachments from strangers. Such actions could lead to malware infections or identity theft. If you are unsure about links and files, ask your parents for help.



7) Be a good digital citizen: It is very important to be respectful, kind, and responsible online. Do not be mean to others, do not bully, and only engage in positive online interactions.


8) Talk to a trusted adult: If you come across something online that makes you feel uncomfortable or if you find out another child is being bullied or is in distress, immediately talk to a trusted adult, such as your parents, teachers, or your school counselor. It is a very big cyber world, and we must watch out for each other!


9) Report and block any Inappropriate Behavior: If you encounter online harassment, bullying, or inappropriate content, report it to a trusted adult or the appropriate platform. Don't hesitate to block or unfollow individuals who engage in such behavior.


10) Do not participate in online challenges: It's important to be cautious when it comes to online challenges. Some challenges may seem fun or exciting, but they can also be dangerous or encourage risky behavior. Avoid participating in challenges that involve sharing personal information, performing dangerous stunts, or going against your better judgment. Always prioritize your safety and well-being over participating in viral trends or challenges.



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