In an era where smartphones and tablets are ubiquitous among children, the age at which they embark on their digital journey is steadily decreasing. As technology advances, so do the cybersecurity threats targeting our youngest digital citizens. Cybersecurity firm Kaspersky anticipates several key trends in 2024 that parents should be aware of to ensure the online safety of their children.
AI Tools & Content: A Potential Minefield
As children increasingly engage with AI tools, they unknowingly expose themselves to potential risks. A staggering 80% of young people interact with AI daily, according to UN research. Little-known applications, seemingly harmless at first glance, may compromise children’s privacy by storing their images in undisclosed databases. In addition, AI chatbots, designed for inappropriate content, pose a significant threat, with age verification measures often proving insufficient.
Gamers Beware: Cybercriminals Targeting Young Players
With 91% of children aged 3-15 playing games online, cybercriminals exploit unmoderated voice and text chats to build trust with young gamers. Gaining their confidence through promises of gifts or friendship, criminals then manipulate them into clicking on phishing links or downloading malicious files disguised as game mods, putting personal information at risk.
FinTech for Kids: A Gateway for Cyber Threats
As banks introduce specialized products for children, including banking cards for kids as young as 12, new threats emerge. Cybercriminals use social engineering to exploit children’s trust, posing as peers to extract sensitive information or initiate fraudulent transactions.
Smart Homes, Vulnerable Children: A Rising Threat
The growing number of threats to smart home devices puts children at risk as potential targets. Cybercriminals can exploit smart devices as surveillance tools to contact children and extract sensitive information or even launch physical attacks when parents are away.
Respecting Personal Space: A Growing Need
As children become more self-aware, they demand their personal online space be respected. Parents need to navigate discussions about installing digital parenting apps, establishing clear boundaries, and enforcing guidelines while respecting their children’s privacy.
App Downloads: A Gateway to Malicious Copies
Children seeking unavailable apps in their region often download malicious copies, even from official app stores like Google Play. Kaspersky researchers have identified numerous infected apps, emphasizing the importance of vigilant measures to prevent unwitting exposure to cyber threats.
“As we can see, many of the trends that are playing out in society are also affecting children, making them potential targets for attackers. This includes both the development and popularity of AI and smart homes, as well as the expansion of the world of gaming and FinTech industry. Therefore, it is crucial to teach children the basics of cybersecurity from an early age, how not to fall into the trap of cybercriminals, what cyberthreats can occur during gaming, and how to properly protect your personal data. All this is now a must-have knowledge not only for adults, but also for the youngest users,” according to Andrey Sidenko, Security and Privacy Expert at Kaspersky.
In response to these threats, Kaspersky emphasizes the need for proactive parental measures. Staying informed about evolving threats, actively monitoring online activities, and fostering open communication are crucial steps. To assist parents, Kaspersky has developed the Cybersecurity Alphabet, a resource to educate children on cybersecurity concepts. Tools like Kaspersky’s Safe Kids app provide effective safeguards against cyber threats, ensuring a secure digital environment for the next generation.