Risks Kids Face Online –

and How Parents Can Help

By Jess Gilbert

 

In today’s connected world, kids in Alaska are growing up surrounded by technology. Phones, tablets, and the internet have become part of daily life, often introduced to kids before they’re old enough to understand the risks that come with them. Whether chatting with friends on Snapchat, watching videos on YouTube, or playing games online, young Alaskans are spending more time on the internet than ever before. That’s why understanding digital safety has become a key part of raising healthy, informed kids.But for many parents, knowing where to begin can be overwhelming.

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During a recent internet safety session led by MTA at Sherrod Elementary in Palmer, students shared eye-opening questions that revealed just how engaged they are with their digital lives and how much guidance they still need. Questions like:

• “How do I report something, like online?”

• “Can a hacker guess my phone password?”

• “I always ask my mom before I add someone back on Snapchat.”

• “How do I know if I have spyware or a virus on my computer?”

These aren’t just tech questions – they’re real concerns coming from kids who are navigating the digital world, which is full of hidden and evolving dangers.

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Understanding the Risks

Online threats aren’t always easy to spot. They can show up in the form of friendly messages, funny links, or on popular apps, but behind that harmless exterior can be real dangers, including:

• Phishing and Scams: Fake messages that trick kids into giving away personal information or clicking on malicious links.

• Malware and Spyware: Harmful software that can infect devices, steal data, and compromise privacy, often installed unknowingly through downloads or ads.

• Cyberbullying and Privacy Violations: Harassment on social media, group chats, or gaming platforms can seriously affect mental health. Sharing too much online can also put kids at risk.

• Obscenity and Digital Piracy: Exposure to inappropriate content and illegal file-sharing are more accessible than many parents realize.

• AI-Generated Content: AI is making it easier to create realistic fake images, videos, and messages that can be used in scams, bullying, or spreading misinformation, making it harder for kids to tell what’s real online.

These threats can come through texts, emails, social media, games, and file-sharing platforms – tools kids use daily. That’s why it’s so important to teach them how to recognize red flags and stay safe.

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What Parents Can Do

The good news is you don’t have to be a tech expert to help your kids stay safe online, and you don’t have to do it all by yourself. With the right conversations and cybersecurity tools, parents can create a safer digital environment at home. What matters most is having open conversations about digital safety and starting those talks early.

Here are a few basic safety tips every family should cover:

• Use strong, unique passwords for each account and teach kids not to share them with friends.

• Don’t talk to strangers online and remind kids that people aren’t always who they say they are.

• Turn on privacy settings and parental controls to limit exposure to risky and inappropriate content and protect personal data.

• Encourage healthy screen time habits, including tech-free times during the day.

It’s also important to stay informed. Online threats are always changing, so keeping up with the latest trends and apps your kids are using can go a long way.

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Tools That Can Help

Technology can be part of the solution when it comes to keeping kids safe online. From parental control apps to built-in privacy settings, there are more resources than ever to help families stay protected.

One option available to Alaska families is MTA Shield – a cybersecurity tool that helps block harmful content, phishing attempts, and malware before they ever reach your child’s screen. It’s not a replacement for conversations or guidance, but it’s a strong layer of defense that works in the background while your kids browse, stream, and chat.

Think of it as one more way to stay a step ahead in a fast-changing digital world.

When parents, schools, and community partners like MTA work together, we can equip kids with the tools they need to navigate the online world confidently. It starts with education, open dialogue, and steady support – building lifelong habits that help kids stay safe, aware, and in control.

 

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Jess Gilbert is a proud Alaskan mom and the Director of Marketing and Communications at MTA Solutions, where she leads efforts to connect communities and inspire innovation across the state. Passionate about storytelling, technology, and teamwork, she’s dedicated to building a brighter digital future for Alaska’s families.