Commentary: AI makes kids' online safety a lot trickier. Here are 5 ways parents, caregivers can take charge

As artificial intelligence (AI) and generative AI continue to rapidly evolve and reshape our lives, safeguarding our children has never been more critical. 

Earlier this year, the chief executives of five major social media companies testified in a US Senate hearing on Big Tech and the online child sexual exploitation crisis, sparking a heated debate on child online safety and mental health. 

Currently, researchers vary in their views on the effects of technology use on children's well-being. That said, what we do know is that social media use and mental health problems in youths have increased in tandem; more and more studies are finding links between the two in several contexts. 

What all experts seem to agree on is that tech industries and governments alike need to work to create better online environments for our children. 

In the midst of all this, the integration of AI into various digital platforms and services has introduced new complexities to the online safety landscape. 

As parents, guardians, and caregivers, we need to understand both the potential benefits and risks associated with AI and equip ourselves with the knowledge and tools needed to navigate these complexities effectively.

Here are some ways in which AI complicates things:

Enhanced personalisation: AI algorithms used by popular streaming platforms analyse user data to recommend content tailored to individual preferences, potentially exposing children to inappropriate material beyond parental control.

Deepfakes and manipulated content: AI enables the creation of hyper-realistic deepfake videos. This allows malicious actors to fabricate content that can deceive and harm children, such as fake celebrity endorsements of dangerous or illicit materials or altered news clips spreading wrong or misleading information.

Algorithmic bias: Social media platforms employ AI algorithms that may inadvertently amplify biases against certain demographics, resulting in discriminatory content distribution and fostering negative perceptions among children based on factors like ethnicity, gender, or socio-economic status.

Privacy concerns: AI-driven smart toys and devices, such as smart speakers and interactive dolls, often collect and store children's personal data without robust privacy protections, raising concerns about unauthorised access, data breaches, and potential exploitation by third parties for targeted advertising or identity theft.

LEVERAGING AI TO ENHANCE ONLINE SAFETY 

While AI introduces new challenges to online safety, it is also a promising tool in bolstering online safety measures with its advanced algorithms that can swiftly analyse vast amounts of data, allowing for the rapid identification and mitigation of potential threats and harmful content. 

Here's how AI can be leveraged to enhance online safety for children:

Content moderation: Platforms like TikTok and Instagram use AI algorithms to automatically flag and remove inappropriate content, such as violent or explicit videos in violation of their community standards, ensuring a safer browsing experience for young users.

Adaptive parental controls: Apps like Google Family Link and Apple Screen Time employ AI algorithms to analyse children's online activities and adjust parental controls accordingly, allowing parents to set limits on specific apps, websites, or screen time based on their child's age and behaviour.

Cybersecurity solutions: AI-driven cybersecurity software like CrowdStrike and Halcyon  utilise machine learning algorithms and generative AI to detect and block online threats, such as viruses, malware, and phishing attempts, protecting children's devices and personal information from cyberattacks.

Digital well-being features: Platforms like Apple iOS and Android devices offer digital well-being features powered by AI algorithms that monitor screen time, track app usage, and provide insights into device usage patterns, helping parents and children maintain a healthy balance between online and offline activities.

RECOMMENDATIONS FOR PARENTS

While AI-driven solutions and regulations can contribute to maintaining online safety, parents and caregivers also need to get closely involved. Here are practical recommendations on how to further enhance your children's online safety:

Establish open communication: A recent survey by the Ministry of Communications and Information highlighted that parents are not always aware of children’s online gaming activities. It's essential to establish a supportive and open dialogue with your children about their online experiences. Continually encourage them to share what they enjoy about these activities and to ask questions where they’re unsure, fostering an environment where they feel comfortable discussing any concerns or incidents they may encounter. 

Prioritise digital literacy for the whole family: Digital literacy impacts the necessary skills needed to thrive alongside AI and to be resilient both online and offline. Begin by educating yourself about various aspects of technology, including AI, and best online safety practices. By teaching family members, especially children, about responsible online behaviour — such as respecting others’ privacy and protecting their own, avoiding cyberbullying, and critically evaluating information — they can navigate the online world responsibly and identify potential risks and threats.

Co-create rules around usage: Nurture a collaborative approach within your family to co-create boundaries and rules regarding screen time, appropriate content consumption, and online interactions. Rely on expert guidance to create these rules and regularly review and adjust these guidelines as needed to ensure they remain relevant and effective in promoting a healthy and balanced digital lifestyle for everyone. 

Lead by example: There is mounting evidence that how parents use digital media can have a big impact on their children’s development. Be mindful of your own online behaviours and habits, as children often model their behaviour based on their parents'. Set a positive example as a technology role model by promoting quality tech use for your children. This can involve dedicating phone-free time each day to do activities with your child or choosing online activities together that are educational and enriching, like playing games, exploring videos and tutorials on hobbies such as painting, crafts, gardening etc.  

Stay informed and engaged: Engage with your children's digital experiences to understand their behaviour, enabling you to monitor any sudden and unexpected changes in mood and well-being. Rather than avoiding new technologies like AI out of fear, it’s important to stay updated on the latest trends and developments, so you can both appreciate their vast possibilities while maintaining safety for you and your kids in this new digital age.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR:

Dr Gayathri Haridas is a policy manager at public policy consultancy Access Partnership where her work focuses on the impact of digital technologies on society. Gayathri is a technology and innovation policy specialist who has experience in advising governments and corporations on policy and strategy during times of intense change and uncertainty.