Schools have switched to a blended learning system, so students spend more time online than in classrooms. The Internet is an indispensable source of information and entertainment, and it is also a convenient way of communication. However, despite all its advantages, there may be hidden threats in the virtual world.
Law enforcement officers remind parents how to protect their child from the negative effects of the Internet:
– explain to the child that there are people in the Internet space who can use personal data against him or his family, so emphasize that you cannot provide strangers with personal information or photos, you should not add strangers as friends, share your geodata (it is advisable to turn off geolocation services in applications);
– tell the child about the dangers of social groups and online communities that can influence the child’s behavior;
– set safe search settings on Google, YouTube and other services;
– ask the child in which groups, with whom and on what topics he communicates;
– if necessary, install parental control programs that will allow you to monitor which sites the child visits, as well as a program that limits the time spent at the computer.
Pay attention if the child has become withdrawn, irritable, has frequent mood swings, a sharp decrease or increase in activity – this may indicate that the schoolchild has come under the influence of dangerous Internet communities. Talk to your child more often, be interested in his life, problems, ask for advice – then he will not look for virtual friends on the Internet.
Also explain that there are phenomena such as cyberbullying and online scams. Convince the child that in case of bullying, blackmail or extortion on the Internet, he can always turn to his parents for support, and to the police for help.
Communications Department of the Lviv Oblast Police