A recent survey conducted by Kaspersky, a global leader in cyber security and digital privacy, reveals that a significant 75% of parents in South Africa strive for complete oversight of their children’s online experiences.
With the alarming rise of cyber threats, these findings shed light on a parental instinct driven by concern and vigilance.
The survey, part of an extensive initiative entitled “Growing Up Online” spearheaded by the Toluna research agency, examined the digital habits of families across five countries, including South Africa.
It is reported that South African parents monitor children's online activities amid growing digital threats with the survey reflecting a troubled reality. It is also revealed that 43% of children have encountered violent content online, while 12% of parents admitted to concerning cases where unknown adults attempted to befriend their children in the digital realm.
Adding to the financial woes, 18% of parents reported losing money due to their children's online behaviours, which ranged from accidentally downloading costly games to falling prey to online scams.
The findings have prompted experts to recommend a blend of technical and non-technical measures to shield children from these threats.
Central to their advice is the importance of increasing digital literacy among both parents and children. As parents navigate the complexities of online safety, Kaspersky’s diverse parental control programs, such as the Kaspersky Safe Kids application, offer a comprehensive solution.
This application provides features that enable parents to manage screen time, track geolocation, and block access to age-inappropriate content across platforms like YouTube.
The efficacy of these parental controls was highlighted in a recent test by AV-Comparatives, where Kaspersky Safe Kids was lauded for successfully blocking 98% of inappropriate content without any false-positive cases.
Seifallah Jedidi, Head of Consumer Channel in the Middle East, Türkiye, and Africa at Kaspersky, commented: “When it comes to children's online safety, protection from inappropriate content plays a significant role. Our goal is to empower parents with the confidence that their children are safeguarded.”
As cyber dangers continue to infiltrate everyday life, Kaspersky encourages parents to employ proactive strategies to navigate this new digital terrain. These recommendations include:
Staying informed about the latest online threats and actively monitoring children's online activities to foster a safer environment.
Maintaining open communication about potential online risks and establishing clear boundaries to ensure safety.
Using Kaspersky’s recently developed cyber security Alphabet, a resource designed to teach children vital cyber hygiene and the nuances of the digital world.
Installing trusted security solutions on devices to prevent downloads of malicious files during gaming experiences.
Utilising a digital parenting app, such as Kaspersky Safe Kids, to efficiently safeguard against cyber threats.
As digital threats become more sophisticated, equipping children with the knowledge and tools to navigate online spaces safely has never been more crucial. Parents are encouraged to engage with their children in discussions about cyber security, making the internet a safer place for the young digital generation.
The Star