Information and proper education can often be the best tools one can have to counteract the dangers of the online world.
During an interview on KVOE’s Talk of Emporia Monday, SOS Outreach Prevention Coordinator Danielle Armitage discussed Internet Safety Month which is currently winding down. She says now more than ever internet safety for parents and children alike is of the utmost importance as we move further and further into a digital world.
While she says the internet can be a great resource for connection, it can also be extremely dangerous for the same reason. One of the most prevalent concerns continues to be online child predators.
Noting the fact that “anyone can be anyone on the internet,” Armitage says it is very important that parents have conversations with their children and make them aware that people are not always who they claim to be.
In terms of spotting online predators, Armitage says certain behaviors can serve as a clear red flag, including an individual having an overly inquisitive nature.
When it comes to social media and online chat rooms, children and teens should never engage with someone they do not know. If someone reaches out to them and tries to initiate a conversation or inappropriate behavior, it is important to report that activity to a trusted adult immediately.
In addition to online predators, which have become a prevalent concern over the last decade, Armitage adds social media sites such as TikTok, Facebook and others can also have a strong influence over younger individuals.
Armitage notes that in recent years, TikTok trends have become extremely popular amongst teens and adults alike noting said trends can be fun, but some can also be dangerous and inappropriate. She says this is where parents need to set expectations and guidelines with their children as to what is considered appropriate behavior both online and in person.
She adds that parents should also stay up-to-date on the latest trends to help deter dangerous or inappropriate behavior before it begins.
Armitage also says another way parents can promote appropriate online behavior is to model it themselves.
Since 2005, the month of June has been recognized as Internet Safety Month which aims to raise awareness of internet dangers and increase knowledge of cyber threats, especially amongst young people. If you have questions about how to promote proper online behavior or cyber threats in general, visit SOSKansas.com or find SOS on Facebook.
