Learn all about internet safety for kids in this NatWest guide.
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Staying safe online
Online safety – top tips for kids
1. Go big on internet security
Through emails, messaging apps and video calls, it’s so easy for kids to connect at the tap of a few buttons. And that’s not to mention the thousands of websites and games trying to grab their attention.
So, here are some tips on basic internet safety for kids.
Use strong passwords. Avoiding names, birthdays, and basic codes like ‘12345’ can stop hackers. Combining uppercase and lowercase letters, symbols, and numbers should keep things more secure.
Log out of computers, apps and accounts. Explain how personal details could fall into the wrong hands if you always stay logged in and never shut devices down.
Warn kids to be careful who they talk to. Emphasise that not everything is what it seems on the web. People can hide behind fake identities. And clicking suspicious links could lead to viruses.
Discuss the risks of public Wi-Fi. While free Wi-Fi can save on mobile data, explain how it may not always be secure.
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4. Encourage responsible online shopping
Online shopping is another big part of internet safety for kids. High street brands, e-commerce giants, and second-hand auction sites have made it seamless to shop from the palm of your hand.
But it’s important to teach kids things aren’t always what they seem.
Learn how to spot scam websites. Show kids the value of reading reviews and doing their research. It could stop them from paying for fake goods that never arrive.
Check names and spellings. Explain how fraudsters often use web addresses that are very similar to legitimate sites. But you can catch them out by spotting typos and incorrect logos.
Ensure payments are secure. Mention how websites that show a padlock symbol and start with ‘https’ may be more trustworthy.
Always research product details. Internet shopping has one big drawback – you can’t see a product in person until it arrives. So, teach your kids the importance of checking product sizes and technical information before they buy.
Children aged 3-7
As your little ones take their first digital steps, you could:
Boost their online literacy by introducing them to age-appropriate games and videos
Encourage them to let you know if they feel worried or upset about online material
Teach them to respect other people online – but also to say no if they feel uncomfortable.
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Children aged 7-11
As your kids become more digitally savvy, you could:
Talk openly about online safety, explaining the importance of keeping personal data safe and looking out for scams
Show them how to report inappropriate behaviour if they feel uncomfortable, using ‘block’ and ‘report’ buttons
Consider limiting their screen time if you feel it’s starting to take over.
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Teens aged 11-17
As your teens get used to social media and online shopping, you could:
Warn them about posting content that might hurt their reputation or cause regret
Keep them up to speed on the dangers of viruses, phishing and fake websites
Tell them to ask for help and collect evidence when encountering cyberbullying or inappropriate content.
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3. Keep an eye on social media use
Used the right way, social media can help kids express themselves, share experiences, and keep in touch with friends. On the flipside, it can pose risks like inappropriate content and chatting to the wrong people.
Here are a few ways you could manage and support your children’s social media usage.
Check privacy settings. Making profiles private can ensure photos, videos and messages stay within your child’s circle of friends and trusted contacts.
Restrict location settings. This stops kids from being tracked by people they don’t know.
Make sure they’re the right age. Platforms like Facebook, Instagram and TikTok have minimum age requirements. For example, it’s 13+ with TikTok. Read our guide on TikTok safety for kids.
Don’t share personal information. Encourage your kids to think carefully about what they post online. And flag the dangers of sharing too much personal or financial information, such as a home or school address.