Internet Safety for Kids
If you’re like me, and you use your kids as free tech support whenever you need to configure your wireless router or your TV to play funny cat videos, then it’s tempting to let the kids take care of their own online security as well.
That could be a big mistake. #faf@31
While your kids might be experts at the technology, they’re not experts at evaluating risk.
You already know that, unless guided, it’s easy to manipulate children into smoking, drinking, speeding, bullying, and, of course, jumping off cliffs because all their friends are doing it.
Mistakes can cause a lot of damage. Everything from expensive ransomware infections, identity theft, loss of friendships to putting your child’s life at risk.
As in the off-line world, you need to provide guidance, set boundaries, and, depending on your child’s age and maturity level, put safeguards in place.
You also need to be aware of where the threats are coming from.
1.  Make YouTube safe for your kids
YouTube is the new children’s TV.
It’s one of the most popular sites out there, but not all of those videos will be appropriate for your children.
But the site does have some safety features, and you should take advantage of them.
On the desktop site, if you scroll down to the bottom of the screen you’ll see a “Restricted Mode” setting. This hides videos flagged as containing inappropriate content.
In the mobile apps, click on the three dots at the top right and click on Settings > General and scroll down until you see the “Restricted Mode” option.
2.  Set up separate accounts for your kids on your computers
If you share a device with your children consider setting up a separate account or accounts. Each account will have its own home screen and, depending on the device and platform, a different selection of features, apps, and permissions.
This helps you to protect your own data or video recommendations. It also allows you to set up customized security and privacy settings for each child.
On Windows computers, you can set up a new user account for your children. Go to Settings > Accounts > Add a family member > Add a child.
3.  Install anti-virus on your computers and mobile devices
Children are as vulnerable as the rest of us, if not more so, to clicking on bad links and downloading malicious software.
To protect them and their devices install anti-virus software on all of them.
There are some excellent free products available from trustworthy brands.
VPN (another option)
Also, consider using a virtual private network .
http://www.buyexpressvpn.net/page/2/
http://www.vpnsnetflix.com/
http://www.vpnsnetflix.com/streams/