BY JOHN ELLIS, FINANCIAL ADVISOR
Tuesday of this week marked Safer Internet Day. A global initiative that is aimed at highlighting responsible and safe internet use. This year’s theme urged us to “Prepare, Protect, Thrive: Navigating Algorithms and Influencers,” as young people are spending more and more time online than ever before. This presents both opportunities and threats that must be tackled to safeguard their well-being.
Recent figures from the Central Statistics Office (CSO) highlight a startling trend that nearly eight in 10 young people are online almost all day, every day. While the internet serves as an incredible tool for education, communication, and creativity, it also introduces serious risks that parents, teachers, and politicians must confront.
The rapid advancement of artificial intelligence (AI) has given rise to a host of unexpected dangers, including AI-powered online grooming, deepfake cyberbullying, and highly addictive social media algorithms designed to push harmful content.
Research from Dublin City University’s Anti-Bullying Centre in 2024 found that platforms such as TikTok and YouTube “serve high levels of harmful content to teenage boys, ranging from toxic masculinity to misogyny”. Add that to the growing dominance of AI-generated misinformation, the urgency to protect children online has never been greater.
So, to help parents and guardians navigate these challenges, here are some practical tips to moderate online risks:
Recognise New Risks as the digital universe is evolving rapidly. Parents must stay informed about AI tools, online grooming tactics, deepfake technology, and the impact of social media algorithms. They therefore need to brush up on AI by understanding key AI concepts, such as ChatGPT, DeepSeek, AI bias, and content algorithms This will help parents make informed decisions and educate their children about potential pitfalls.
Use parental control apps that offer screen time management, location tracking, and harmful content filters that can be effective tools in managing children’s online activity. Set screen time boundaries as excessive screen time can affect a child’s mental and emotional well-being. Establishing clear guidelines on internet usage helps promote a healthy balance.
Adjust social media restrictions. Bur remember each social media platform offers different privacy settings and parental controls. So, familiarise yourself with these features before allowing your child to use social apps.
Define ‘dos and don’ts’ by teaching children the importance of not sharing personal details with strangers, being cautious about clicking unknown links, and questioning the legitimacy of online content.
Install antivirus software, enable two-factor authentication, and set up secure passwords that can protect children from cyber threats.
Foster open conversations by encourage discussions where children feel comfortable discussing their online experiences and any concerns they may have.
Eoin Clarke, broadband expert at Switcher.ie, stresses the importance of parental vigilance in the digital age:“As excessive internet use spirals and AI becomes deeply integrated into classrooms and households, parents must stay aware of emerging risks. From deepfake cyberbullying to harmful AI-generated content, these challenges can impact a child’s mental health, sense of reality, and learning ability.
“Taking proactive steps, such as educating yourself on AI risks, using parental control apps, and setting clear online boundaries, is crucial to keeping children safe. Resources like Webwise.ie and Cybersafekids.ie provide valuable guidance, while confidential helplines such as Parentsline.ie offer support to parents in need.”
As Safer Internet Day reminds us, a secure digital future for our children is a shared responsibility. Websites like webwise.ie and cybersafekids.ie have free online resources, while parentsline.i.e. offers a national, confidential helpline should you need help. In that way we can help young people navigate the internet safely, preparing them to thrive in an increasingly AI-driven world.
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