Protecting Children Online: Strategies for Safety

Many children perceive the internet as a safe haven. An eight-year-old might make a new friend in a game chat, while a teenager might find someone who understands them. However, this comfort can quickly lead to exploitation.

Why are children vulnerable?

“Younger children, especially those between 8 and 12 years old, are still learning to discern safe from unsafe interactions. They often don’t fully grasp manipulation or deception, particularly when someone presents themselves online as a friend,” explained Dr. Riad Khudair, consultant psychiatrist at NMC Royal Hospital Sharjah, to Khaleej Times.

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“Teenagers aged 13 to 16 are often the most emotionally vulnerable. During this stage, many seek acceptance, validation, and emotional connections, making them susceptible to strangers who seem to listen, care, or relate to them in ways they feel are lacking at home,” he added.

This week, Abu Dhabi convicted eight people for online child sexual exploitation after investigations revealed they enticed minors to share explicit material through social media and video games.

What parents can do

“Just as children learn to cross the street safely, they also need to learn how to navigate the digital world,” said Asmahan Saleh Khalil, assistant professor at Zayed University and child psychologist at the Free Spirit group.

She explained that recognizing online dangers, understanding risks and benefits, and knowing how to respond to unsafe situations is a skill that needs to be taught, not something children naturally acquire with age.

Khalil noted that parents now have access to a variety of tools, from safer online platforms and protection apps to devices designed to protect children. “I believe all parents can learn, teach, and provide the tools children need to be aware of online safety and build strong values,” she said.

To assist families, Khalil shared some easy strategies:

• Co-play and co-view: Participating together allows parents to ask open-ended questions and guide discussions.

• Privacy by default: Learning to use app and device settings to block strangers and filter unsafe content.

• Robust reporting system: Creating a safe space at home where children feel comfortable reporting online harassment without fear of judgment.

Parents’ techniques

According to a previous Khaleej Times report, parents shared their strategies for keeping their children safe online.

Bu Reem, father of a 12-year-old girl, emphasized building trust with his daughter from a young age. “If anything happens, she knows to come to me directly. If she tells me first, we discuss it and find a solution. But if I find out later, there will be consequences, and she understands that.”

Um Kulthum, a mother of six, believes children should not be completely deprived of technology. Instead, she advocates for guidance and balance. She gradually increased their iPad usage time each year to prevent addiction.

“I control the apps they access and use device settings to manage screen time. Most importantly, I teach them to express themselves and talk about anything bothering them,” she explained.

Role of schools and civil society

“Schools are uniquely positioned to raise awareness and equip children with tools to stay safe online,” said Dr. Shaju George, psychiatrist at International Modern Hospital Dubai.

He emphasized incorporating digital safety and media literacy in school curricula and organizing workshops for students, teachers, and parents on issues like cyberbullying, online grooming, and safe internet use.

“It is equally crucial that children have clear and reliable reporting mechanisms for online threats,” he added.

Dr. George highlighted the important role of society and organizations: “Public campaigns through media, social networks, and community centers ensure the message reaches families beyond schools,” he explained.

“By collaborating with tech companies, society can help create safer platforms and enhance the visibility of child-protection resources. Helplines and support services for victims of online exploitation are equally vital to ensure children and parents don’t feel alone in facing such risks.”

How children can act

“Children need to trust their instincts; if something seems off online, it likely is,” experts said.

Warning signs include sudden flattery, promises of secrecy, pressure to shift conversations to private platforms, threats to share images, or demands for payment.

Experts recommend the STOP method to help children act swiftly:

1. Stop responding to suspicious messages, no arguments, no payments.

2. Take screenshots of usernames, links, and conversations.

3. Obtain help by informing a parent, teacher, or trusted adult immediately.

4. Protect & report by blocking the user, reporting on the platform, and seeking help from hotlines or authorities.

“Ultimately, the goal is to equip children with not just awareness of online dangers, but also the confidence and safe space to react promptly,” the experts added.

“This balance of skills and support is what truly keeps them protected.”