As summer comes to an end and the new school year approaches, it’s important for kids and teens to be aware of online safety. With the increasing use of digital devices and social media, understanding how to protect oneself from scams, phishing, and unsafe apps is crucial. Here are some essential tips to keep in mind as you prepare for the academic year.
Understanding Scams and Phishing
Scams are deceptive schemes designed to trick people into giving away personal information or money. They can appear in various forms, such as fake websites, emails, phone calls and text messages.
One of the most common scams is Phishing. This happens when fraudsters send fake emails or messages pretending to be from a trusted source, like your school or a popular app. The goal is to get you to click on a link or provide personal information.
Parents and students need to understand that phishing attacks often mimic school communications, posing as emails from school administrators, financial aid offices, or popular learning platforms. Parents and students, especially those starting at a new school, college or university should be especially cautious about urgent requests for form submissions or payments which are often used as bait to steal financial details or personal information.
Tips for Staying Safe Online
It’s important for parents to talk to their children about online safety from an early age. Since kids and teens regularly use digital platforms for schoolwork, socialising, and entertainment, they can be prime targets for online scammers. Starting the conversation early helps build awareness and safer habits that grow with them.
The first, important step in staying safe online is to be sceptical of unsolicited messages, even if they come from familiar names. If you receive a message from someone you don’t know or an unexpected email from a familiar source, be cautious. Don’t click on links or provide personal information without verifying the sender.
You should also avoid sharing sensitive information like your home address, phone number, or passwords online. Use privacy settings on social media to control who can see your posts and personal details. Another critical step is creating strong, unique passwords for your accounts and using multi-factor authentication (MFA). This adds an extra layer of security, making it harder for fraudsters to access your accounts.
Three more important things to keep in mind are: making sure you only download apps from official app stores like Google Play or the Apple App Store, reporting suspicious profiles, messages, or apps to the platform or app store, and staying informed about the latest online scams and tactics used by fraudsters.
Preparing for the New School Year
As you get ready for the new school year, take some time to review these online safety tips. Being aware of potential scams and phishing attempts can help you stay safe while using digital devices and social media. Stay vigilant and enjoy a secure online experience as you return to your studies.
