Social Media Literacy

Last month I covered the topic of Social Media and Vacation photos; since it is now back to school and the Delta Police are focusing on Back to School safety, I figured I would touch on the topic of kids and Social Media.

Way back when I started KeepSafe Systems, I was part of a small goal setting group of other business owners and one of the people in the group was doing a thing on Media Literacy. Of course the concept of the Internet and Social Media in 1997 was.... well, that part I cannot remember; I do remember ICQ but we were operating on Dial up Internet at the time so he was really ahead of his time.

Thinking back I remember being fascinated by the topic as it touched on some of the shadier practices of business marketing; basically showing me examples of a path I never wanted to take. It wasn't until the launch of affordable ADSL Internet and the drop in Computer prices that computers became a staple in almost every home and now we cannot seem to imagine life without them.

Of course, as with anything this powerful the benefits often overshadow the risks of the technology and children. Aside from the negative effect on “Real World” life experiences, technology has given predators the ability to use technology to prey on children; the tragic story of Amanda Todd comes to mind

Understanding the Threats

1. Cyberbullying by Peers:

   Cyberbullying involves the use of digital communication tools to harass, threaten, or intimidate someone. Children often become targets of cyberbullying from their peers, and it can take various forms, such as hurtful messages, spreading rumours, or sharing embarrassing photos or videos.

   Signs to Look For:

   • A sudden change in your child's behaviour, mood, or reluctance to use their devices.

   • Signs of distress or emotional turmoil, including withdrawal from social activities or friends.

   • Unexplained decline in academic performance or disinterest in school.

2. Cyberbullying by Adults:

   Unfortunately, not all online threats come from fellow children. Adults may also engage in cyberbullying, often with more malicious intent. It can involve threats, harassment, or even attempts to manipulate children into sharing personal information or explicit content.

   Signs to Look For:

   • Unusual or secretive online interactions with adults.

   • Unexplained gifts or packages from unknown sources.

   • Fear or discomfort when discussing certain online interactions.

3. Cyberstalking by Sexual Predators:

   Sexual predators may use the internet as a tool to target children. They often create fake profiles, posing as peers or trusted individuals to gain a child's trust before exploiting them. Cyberstalking can lead to severe consequences if not detected early.

   Signs to Look For:

   • Frequent contact with an online friend your child has never met in person.

   • Attempts to elicit personal information, intimate photos, or videos from your child.

   • Sudden secrecy about online activities or withdrawal from family and friends.

Protecting Your Children Online

1. Open Communication: Maintain open and honest communication with your children about their online activities. Encourage them to share any concerns or strange interactions they may experience.

2. Educate and Set Boundaries: Teach your children about responsible internet use and the potential risks. Set clear boundaries on screen time, privacy settings, and what information should never be shared online.

3. Monitoring Software: While the thought of invading their privacy can be considered creepy, one needs to examine the risks before using technology to monitor their conversations, even then one must be careful to not cross any boundaries.

4. Teach Digital Literacy: Educate your children about the importance of critical thinking and skepticism online. Teach them how to verify information and recognize fake profiles.

5. Report and Block: Instruct your children to report any inappropriate or threatening behaviour online. Encourage them to block and disconnect from individuals who make them uncomfortable.

6. Stay Informed: As a parent, it is crucial to stay informed about the latest digital trends and potential threats. Attend workshops or seminars on online safety to enhance your knowledge.

As your children navigate the digital landscape, it is essential to be proactive in safeguarding their online experiences. Cyberbullying, cyberstalking, and online predators are real threats, but with vigilant parenting, open communication, and the right tools, you can help protect your children and empower them to make safe and responsible choices on the internet.