Donate Now

Internet Safety: Protecting Children in the Digital World

Understanding Online Risks

In today’s digital world, children face numerous online dangers that parents, educators, and caregivers need to understand. According to research:

  • Nearly 90% of teens have witnessed cyberbullying online
  • 1 in 5 children are solicited sexually online before the age of 18
  • 60% of teens have received messages from strangers online
  • Over 50% of children don’t tell their parents when they encounter online dangers

Major Online Safety Risks

Online Predators

Online predators use manipulation and deception to exploit children. Understanding their methods is critical:

  • Predator profiles: Adults who seek to exploit children through online platforms
  • Victim profiles: Children who may be vulnerable due to isolation, low self-esteem, or lack of parental supervision
  • Grooming techniques: Building trust, isolating victims, and gradually introducing sexual content
Oversharing Personal Information

When children share too much online, it creates risks:

  • Personal details can help predators locate or target children
  • Photos, addresses, school information, and daily routines should remain private
  • Digital footprints have long-term consequences for future education and employment
Sexting

The sharing of sexually explicit messages, images, or videos is increasingly common among teens:

  • Legal consequences: Can result in serious legal issues, including child pornography charges
  • Emotional impact: Shame, embarrassment, and damaged reputations
  • Permanence: Once shared, these images can circulate indefinitely
Cyberbullying

Online harassment affects millions of children each year:

  • Forms: Includes threatening messages, spreading rumors, sharing embarrassing photos, and exclusion
  • Consequences: Depression, anxiety, decreased academic performance, and in severe cases, self-harm
  • Warning signs: Changes in mood, withdrawal from activities, reluctance to go to school

 

Safety Tips for Parents

Open Communication
  • Establish ongoing conversations about online activities
  • Create a safe space where children feel comfortable reporting concerning interactions
  • Discuss online risks without causing unnecessary fear
Monitoring and Boundaries
  • Set clear rules about internet use, including time limits and permitted platforms
  • Use parental controls and monitoring software appropriate for your child’s age
  • Keep computers and devices in common areas of the home
Education and Awareness
  • Stay informed about popular apps and platforms
  • Learn the language and abbreviations children use online
  • Regularly check privacy settings on all accounts
Dangerous Apps to Watch For
  • Anonymous messaging apps that hide user identities
  • Live streaming platforms with limited safety features
  • Dating apps with teen sections
  • Apps with disappearing content that may encourage risky behavior
blue ribbon on a white background against child abuse, and symbol in defense of education

Building a Safer Community

Preventing child abuse starts with awareness and community support. The Fresno Council on Child Abuse Prevention (FCCAP) is dedicated to coordinating services, offering educational training, and advocating for improved child protection strategies. Every effort—big or small—makes a difference.

How to Respond

If you suspect a child is being abused, do not stay silent. As a mandated reporter—or simply a concerned citizen—it’s your responsibility to act. The FCCAP offers Mandated Reporter training and a variety of educational programs to empower adults and children with knowledge and prevention strategies.

Three Keys Steps to Help :

  1. Educate yourself and others on child abuse and its impact.

  2. Advocate for policies and funding that prioritize child welfare.

  3. Donate time, money, or skills to prevention efforts.

Scroll to Top