In today’s digital world, children are growing up surrounded by screens, apps, and online communities. The internet offers countless opportunities for learning, entertainment, and creativity—but it also carries real risks. Online predators, cyberbullying, scams, and exposure to inappropriate content can threaten a child’s emotional and physical safety.
As parents, guardians, or educators, it’s essential to guide children toward safe and responsible online behavior. Here are practical tips to help keep children safe from internet crimes while still allowing them to enjoy the benefits of the digital world.
- Start with Open Communication
The foundation of online safety begins with trust and open dialogue. Encourage your child to talk freely about what they do online—what games they play, which apps they use, and who they interact with.
Avoid using fear or punishment when discussing internet risks. Instead, explain why some online activities can be dangerous. For example:
“Not everyone online is who they say they are.”
“Sharing personal information can make you vulnerable to scams or strangers.”
When children feel safe discussing their online experiences, they are more likely to come to you if something feels uncomfortable or threatening.
- Set Clear Rules for Internet Use
Establish family rules about when, where, and how the internet can be used. These boundaries help children form healthy habits and reduce risks.
Some common rules include:
- Limiting screen time (e.g., no devices during meals or bedtime)
- Using devices only in shared spaces (like the living room)
- Setting time limits for gaming or social media
- Asking permission before downloading new apps or joining websites
You can also create a “digital contract” with your child—a written agreement that outlines what’s allowed and what’s not. This makes the expectations clear and gives both sides a sense of responsibility.
- Educate Children About Online Privacy
Children often don’t understand how valuable personal information can be to criminals. Teach them never to share the following online:
- Full name
- Home address or school name
- Phone numbers
- Passwords
- Photos that show their location or identity
Encourage them to use strong passwords and change them regularly. If possible, enable two-factor authentication (2FA) on accounts to add an extra layer of security.
Also explain that photos and posts shared online never truly disappear, even if deleted. Anything posted online can be copied, saved, or spread by others.
- Use Parental Controls and Monitoring Tools
Technology can help parents protect their children online. Many devices, browsers, and apps now include built-in parental control features that allow you to:
- Block inappropriate websites and content
- Set screen time limits
- Monitor browsing history
- Track app usage or downloads
- Tools like Google Family Link, Apple Screen Time, or Microsoft Family Safety are great for managing online activity.
However, remember that these tools should complement—not replace—communication and education. The goal is to build awareness, not fear or secrecy.
- Teach Children to Recognize Online Threats
Children must learn how to spot suspicious or harmful behavior online. Discuss common forms of online crime in an age-appropriate way:
- Cyberbullying: Repeated teasing, threats, or humiliation on social media or chat apps.
- Online predators: Strangers who try to build emotional trust to exploit children.
- Phishing scams: Fake links or messages that steal passwords or personal data.
- Malware: Harmful programs disguised as games, apps, or downloads.
- Encourage children to be cautious when someone:
- Asks for personal information
- Sends gifts or money
- Tries to meet in person
- Shares inappropriate images or requests them
- Teach them the golden rule: “If something feels wrong or uncomfortable, tell an adult immediately.”
- Supervise Social Media Use
Social media can be both fun and dangerous for young users. Platforms like TikTok, Instagram, and Snapchat expose children to strangers and public visibility.
To promote safe social media use:
- Help your child set accounts to private.
- Review their friend lists regularly and remove unknown contacts.
- Discuss what’s appropriate to post or share publicly.
- Encourage them to avoid location tagging.
You can also follow your child’s accounts or co-manage them to ensure safety without invading privacy. This creates transparency while maintaining trust.
- Stay Informed About Apps and Games
Children often explore new apps and online games faster than adults can keep up. Take time to learn about the platforms your child uses—read reviews, check age ratings, and test them yourself if possible.
Be cautious of:
- Games with in-app purchases that can lead to accidental spending
- Apps that require access to personal data or location
- Anonymous chat features that make it easy for predators to contact users
- Knowing what your child uses helps you guide them better and identify potential red flags early.
- Encourage Positive Digital Behavior
Online safety isn’t just about avoiding danger—it’s also about developing ethical and respectful online habits. Teach your child to:
- Be kind and responsible when posting or commenting.
- Respect others’ privacy.
- Think before sharing content or messages.
- Avoid responding to hate or harassment online.
Encourage them to use the internet for positive purposes—learning, creativity, and self-expression—rather than harmful trends or peer pressure.
- Keep Devices and Software Updated
Outdated devices or software can expose your family to security risks. Regularly update:
- Operating systems (Windows, iOS, Android)
- Browsers and apps
- Antivirus software
Updates often fix security vulnerabilities that hackers can exploit. Also, install trusted antivirus and anti-malware programs to protect against harmful downloads or phishing attempts.
- Lead by Example
Children imitate what adults do. If you use your phone during family time or overshare on social media, your child is likely to do the same.
- Set a good example by:
- Practicing healthy screen habits
- Respecting your own privacy online
- Being mindful about what you post
- Putting devices away during meals or conversations
When children see you managing technology responsibly, they’re more likely to follow suit.
- Know What to Do in Case of Online Crime
Despite all precautions, incidents can still happen. If your child becomes a victim of cyberbullying, online fraud, or exploitation, take action immediately:
- Stay calm and avoid blaming your child.
- Document the evidence (screenshots, messages, URLs).
- Report the incident to the platform or app provider.
- Contact authorities such as the local cybercrime unit or law enforcement.
In Indonesia, for example, online crimes can be reported through Cybercrime Police Units (Direktorat Tindak Pidana Siber, Bareskrim Polri) or via official websites such as aduankonten.id under the Ministry of Communication and Information (Kominfo).
Timely reporting can help prevent further harm and assist authorities in tracing the perpetrators.
Conclusion
The internet is an incredible tool for education, creativity, and social connection—but it’s not without danger. Protecting children from online crime requires a balanced approach: education, communication, and technology.
By setting boundaries, teaching awareness, and staying actively involved in your child’s digital life, you create a safer online environment where they can explore, learn, and grow responsibly.
In the end, the goal isn’t to isolate children from the internet—but to empower them to navigate it wisely and safely.