The various digital devices and the ubiquity of the Internet in the lives of children mean that they “lead their lives online in both private and educational contexts”. This is not without risk and ENISA, the European Network and Information Security Agency, has just published a report offering recommendations against cyberbullying and online “grooming” (the process by which an adult puts a child in trust in order to sexually abuse them).
“The main identified risks faced by adolescents include: a significant decline in physical or mental health, irreversible exposure of important personal information online, discrimination based on online behavior and misuse of personal data. “, we mention in the press release.
In particular, the report points out that EU countries should strengthen law enforcement agencies by providing them with additional knowledge and resources.
The importance of adding sources of knowledge about Internet use and online services is also mentioned. The report argues for social media awareness campaigns. He also argues that parents and educators "need better technological skills." It is not uncommon for teenagers to know much more than their parents in this area!
Moreover, in order to mitigate the risks for adolescents, the report notably proposes the use of security parameters that would be specific to them. Mechanisms to allow the deactivation of all online active components and age-based control mechanisms should also be put in place, it is felt.
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