CYBERSECURITY

WHAT PARENTS NEED TO KNOW ABOUT CYBERSECURITY

CYBERSECURITY CONCEPTS AND PRACTICES TO KEEP KIDS SAFE ONLINE:

  1. Strong Passwords: Encourage your child to create strong, unique passwords for their accounts. A good password should include a mix of letters, numbers, and special characters, and should not be easily guessable.

  2. Password Management: Consider using a password manager to securely store and manage passwords. This can help children avoid using the same password across multiple sites.

  3. Phishing Awareness: Teach children to recognize phishing attempts, which often come in the form of emails or messages asking for personal information. Remind them to never click on suspicious links or provide sensitive information.

  4. Secure Wi-Fi: Ensure that your home Wi-Fi network is secured with a strong password and that the network is encrypted. Avoid using public Wi-Fi for sensitive activities, like online banking.

  5. Antivirus Software: Install reputable antivirus and anti-malware software on devices to protect against threats. Ensure that this software is regularly updated.

  6. Software Updates: Regularly update all devices, apps, and operating systems. Updates often include security patches that protect against vulnerabilities.

  7. Privacy Settings: Regularly review and adjust privacy settings on social media and apps to control what information is shared and who can see it.

  8. Monitoring Online Activity: Consider using parental controls and monitoring tools to keep track of your child’s online activity. This can help you identify potential risks.

  9. Device Security: Teach your child to lock their devices with a password or biometric security (like a fingerprint) to prevent unauthorized access.

  10. Open Communication: Foster an environment where your child feels comfortable discussing their online experiences and any concerns they may have about security or interactions with others.

  11. Avoiding Downloads: Educate children on the risks of downloading files or apps from untrusted sources, which can introduce malware to their devices.

  12. Data Privacy: Discuss the importance of protecting personal information online. Encourage your child to think critically about what they share and with whom.