All users are vulnerable when we browse the Internet and social networks, but when we talk about minors the risk increases.
In a context like summer, in which free time and enjoyment prevail, addictive behaviors can be seen in risky situations among young people.
We are talking about a population group that is especially vulnerable and that does not have the necessary media literacy to navigate safely and confront the "information bombardment" that develops among younger people.
Minors are increasingly using digital platforms and although the EU General Data Protection Regulation and the applications themselves establish age limitations, the reality is that the little ones regularly use social networks.
The applications that children between 9 and 12 years old use the most, at least once a day, are YouTube (78%), followed by Facebook (45%), TikTok (41%) and Instagram and Snapchat (40%)
Establishing limits and supervision are two key points regarding the use of the network by minors. It is important that the use of new technologies is delimited with a set schedule, being aware of where they browse or what applications they use through some of the multiple programs that allow this control.
As educational professionals, from our position we must contribute to promoting healthy use of the Internet by minors.
What can we do?
- Make parents and educators aware of the characteristics of social networks, blogs, messaging services, downloads, etc. and the uses that minors make of these tools and the risks they are exposed to.
- Advise parents and minors on security and identity protection measures.
- Reinforce in minors the same system of positive values and behavioral norms in their use of ICT that are promoted in real life.
In the following resources you can find useful information:
- The Internet User Safety Office (OSI) offers a multitude of resources for the safe use of the Internet by citizens. Younger people can learn how to protect themselves on the Internet through interactive games.
- The National Cybersecurity Institute, dependent on the Ministry of Economic Affairs and Digital Transformation, has the Safe Internet for Kids (IS4K) portal.
