As the internet evolves, so do the digital threats lurking within. Cyber scams, once reliant on clunky tactics, are now powered by sophisticated AI, making them more convincing and dangerous than ever.
As parents, the responsibility of keeping our kids safe falls squarely on our shoulders. We want to help you navigate and mitigate that risk. These tips will help you start the process.
What you can implement today for your family
Open the dialogue
- Break the ice: Don’t wait for a crisis. Start the conversation about online safety early and often. Make it casual, like chatting during screen time or on car rides.
- Listen and learn: As a family set boundaries and guidelines on which apps are allowed and what parental controls will be implemented. This will help them understand the digital world and tailor your guidance accordingly.
- Bust the myths: Explain that not everyone online is who they say they are, and “free” offers often come with a hidden cost.
Become a scam detective
- Role-play phishing attacks: Create mock emails, texts, or pop-up ads with common scam tactics and then play detective together. Ask critical questions like “Why is this so urgent?” and “Is this website secure?”.
- Point out red flags: Teach your kids to identify common warning signs like bad emails or bad grammar, misspelled words, pressure tactics, and demands for personal information. Show them real-life examples of scams (with appropriate discretion) to solidify their understanding.
- Empower critical thinking: Encourage your kids to question everything they see online. Remind them that if something seems too good to be true, it probably is.
Build a Fortress of Defense
- Secure your networks: Use strong passwords for Wi-Fi and online accounts, and ensure automatic updates are enabled for all software. Consider parental controls and antivirus software for added protection.
- Privacy matters: Discuss the importance of privacy settings and encourage your kids to be mindful of what information they share online. Remind them that once something is posted, it’s often difficult to erase.
- Keep the lines open: Create an environment where your kids feel comfortable coming to you if they encounter anything suspicious online. Assure them they won’t get in trouble for honest mistakes.
Further legal information
On December 20, 2023, the Federal Trade Commission (“FTC”) issued a Notice of Proposed Rulemaking that would make significant changes to the Children’s Online Privacy Protection Rule (“COPPA Rule”), which implements the Children’s Online Privacy Protection Act of 1998. The proposed rule would make a number of changes intended to expand the COPPA Rule, in order to address perceived shortcomings in how information about children under the age of 13 is collected, used, and shared by websites and online service operators. In this Legal Update, provided by Mayer and Brown they examine some of the key provisions of the proposed rule, including new data security requirements.
By fostering open communication, critical thinking, and good online habits, you can prepare your children to navigate the digital world with confidence and resilience. – Mac Chavarria, Bothell Managing Branch Partner, Commercial and Personal Lines
Remember, cyber-safety is a continuous journey, not a one-time destination. Stay updated on the latest trends in AI-powered scams, adjust your strategies as your kids grow, and most importantly, keep the dialogue ongoing. By fostering open communication, critical thinking, and good online habits, you can prepare your children to navigate the digital world with confidence and resilience.
Together, we can raise a generation of cybersmart kids, capable of outsmarting even the most cunning AI-powered scams and enjoying the online world safely and responsibly.
Should you have any questions regarding your current coverage or want further information on these points, Basin Pacific Insurance is here for you. Contact us today at [email protected] and your agent will be in touch shortly.
For more information on the types of cyber coverage offered by Basin Pacific Insurance, click here.