These days, I would like to say that this matter is relevant and important. Considering my previous views on the Internet 14 years ago, topics like “Internet and Web Security” are unknown to me. Ten years ago, the Internet was primarily focused on email and browsing. Commercial, important or complex transactions were rarely performed on the Internet.
At the time, user interaction was possible through web applications. However, in most cases, it is very simple and “not safe”. Security concepts or precautions in the business environment have been ignored and are rarely implemented in web application solutions. Did you know that from January 1, 2005, to May 31, 2020, 11,762 cybercrimes were registered? And personal data related to 58% of crimes in 2020.
Interestingly, there was no such fear at the time. But now it has changed a lot. In a personal or corporate environment, the dimensions of internet security and web security have been taken more seriously than they were 10 years ago. Business and educational institutions have worked hard to make the Internet more transparent and safer.
At the same time, billions of bots, and malware have been developed and distributed over the Internet. Some of them are coded “intelligence” with the ability to operate independently based on complex algorithms and survive to this day. Without security measures, no server in the world could detect any interference, and neither could be smart enough to stop slow attacks on corporate networks. Data theft happens in milliseconds and you won’t notice it.
4 Dangers of the Internet
CyberBullying
According to Netsmartz411.org, an online resource to educate parents about online safety, cyberbullying takes many forms on the Internet. Cyberbullying is when you send hate or death threat messages to children, spread lies online, make unpleasant comments on social media profiles, or create websites that criticize your appearance or reputation.
Cyber predator
These days, offenders and other criminals often persecute children and take advantage of innocence, lack of adult supervision, and abuse of trust on the Internet. This can lead to dangerous personal encounters with children. These predators hide in children’s favorite social media platforms and games. Anonymous is like a virtual space that promotes cyberbullying. There they can use not only children’s innocence but also imaginary gifts.
Posting personal information
Children do not yet understand social boundaries. For example, you can post personal information (PII) like the internet on your social media profile, but you shouldn’t. This can be anything from photos of awkward personal moments to home addresses or family vacation plans.
Most, if not all, of what your child posts are open to the public. This means you can see it too. And, like everyone else, it’s not wrong to remind them if mom and dad can see it. Avoid vigilance. But be honest with your children about social boundaries and what it generally means for them and their families.
Accidentally downloading Malware
Malware is computer software that is installed without the victim’s knowledge and performs malicious actions on the computer. This includes stealing or eavesdropping on personal information on your computer for use by botnets, resulting in poor performance. Cybercriminals often force people to download malicious software. Phishing is one such trick, but there are other methods, such as persuading victims to download malicious software disguised as games, which can be especially tempting for children.
Safety Tips
- Protect your device. Strong passwords or Touch ID capabilities are your first defense against cybercriminals stealing sensitive information. Your data is protected in case your device is lost or stolen thanks to our security measures. And reset the password to default-many businesses today use devices that have not changed their default settings.
- Use only apps you trust. Information about you is collected through the applications you use. Think about who will receive this information and if it is convenient to use.
- Choose carefully about the Wi-Fi you use. Hotspots and public Wi-Fi networks are often insecure, so everyone can see what’s going on on their device. Limit your activities and do not log into accounts that contain sensitive information. Consider using a virtual private network (VPN). There are various VPN companies out there, with AvastVPN and NordVPN being two of the best. You can read articles on AvastVPN vs NordVPN to learn more about the two VPN juggernauts.
- Turn off Wi-Fi and Bluetooth when not in use. Stores and other locations use this information to track the movement of users as they reach them. Bluetooth and Wi-Fi can also serve as digital inputs to your phone. Disable it if not necessary.
- Keep your device and apps up to date. The latest versions of software and applications are the best protection against threats. If the app is deprecated, you can uninstall the app to avoid clutter with supported or updated apps on your device.
Summing Up
The Internet can be a danger for children. It can also open doors to miracles that previous generations have never dreamed of. Protect your kids online so they can experience the fun and opportunities of the online world and avoid the traps. Be alert. But above all, play an active role in your child’s digital and everyday life and communicate openly.
