3 Ways Parents Can Boost Their Family’s Digital Security
Keeping your family digitally secure has never been more important .The good news is that establishing protective measures is relatively simple. Start with the big three: passwords, parental controls and app use. By shoring up your defenses both on and offline, you can likely keep everyone in your family safe and secure.
The Child Online Safety Index (COSI) found that out of 30 countries, Malaysia ranks 14 for child exposure to risky content and 11 for cyber threats. While exposure risks remains between average and above average, families playing an active role in laying the foundation for security can promote a safer and more conducive online environment. Here are some of the ways parents can help to protect their families online:
1. Strengthen your passwords
Security starts with a strong password. Always use a combination of numbers, symbols and uppercase and lowercase letters—and use different ones for every account. Keep track of all of them with a password manager, which can keep all your logins and passwords in one place and remind you to change your password regularly. Some apps even suggest strings of letters, symbols and numbers that are near impossible to crack. When using password manager apps, make sure the device itself is well protected.
2. Parental controls are the front line for a family’s digital security.
Screen time, internet access and age-appropriate content are just a few of the many things parents need to monitor. With apps like Boomerang Parental Control, powered by Knox, parents can screen calls, track movements and monitor texts at a glance. Take an active role in approving the apps they download and keep an eye on screen time. Above all, supplement online parental controls with real face-to-face conversations to navigate the internet together.
3. Protecting your kids means watching out for phishing
Safeguard your children and their devices from malicious content. When phishers lift sensitive personal information from an app, game or website your child visits through phishing, it could have disastrous effects. Brush up on protection protocols for the tablets and phones that your kids use. In addition to exercising parental controls, talk to your kids about staying safe on the internet and have those conversations frequently.
COSI found that Malaysia ranked 15 out of 30 when it comes to parental guidance and mediation in their child’s online activities. On top of implementing preventive measures, parents will have to lead by example by practicing and fostering cybersecurity hygiene practices at home.,
In times where kids are spending time and learning more online, it is key that we instill healthy digital habits from a young age and develop awarenesss towards using mobile devices and surfing on the internet.
