Woman and child viewing something on a computer. Source : Julia M Cameron via Pexels
The Australian Federal Police and the eSafety Commissioner have called for parents to educate their children about online safety.
The AFP-led Australian Centre to Counter Child Exploitation (ACCCE) found that only three per cent of parents and guardians said online grooming was a concern.
The research also found that more than half were not aware of how they could keep their children safe from child sexual exploitation online.
eSafety research surveyed children and found that nearly half were treated negatively online over 2022.
It was also found that exposure to negative and sexual content online was common amongst children aged between 14-years-old and 17-years-old.
AFP Acting Assistant Commissioner Hilda Sirsec said that with the 2023 school year having just begun, it was the right time to educate children about online safety.
“The back to school period is an important milestone and often very busy for parents and carers, however it’s important to always pay attention to what your children are doing online.” Ms Sirsec said.
“Parental and carer supervision for young children can be a critical factor in preventing self-produced child exploitation material and online grooming.
“Open communication with children from an early age, and continuing the conversation throughout all developmental stages is vital in keeping them safe.” She said.
eSafety Commissioner Julie Inman Grant said that it was important parents and caregivers established firm ground rules regarding online conduct with their children.
“As soon as we hand a child a device, we should be talking to them about the dos and don’ts of the online world, while still letting them know they will be supported if anything goes wrong.” Ms Inman Grant said.
“Make sure your children only use devices in open areas of the home and use in-app tools such as parental controls to block inappropriate content and manage their screen time.
“Active privacy settings to limit unwanted contact and help your child learn how to block and report people online.
“There is no substitute for taking an interest in a child’s online lives from an early age.
“As well as supporting communication, this will help you understand the apps they are using and any risks they may face.” She said.
Ms Inman Grant also called for parents and caregivers to read information on eSafety.gov.au and report any suspicious interactions to the ACCCE.
