Cyber security expert Andrey Popov advises parents: «Explore the internet together with your child».
Children`s lack of understanding of online dangers is a key vulnerability exploited by cybercriminals. It`s crucial to explain to children that they should not trust strangers on the internet and should always turn to their parents for help.
The expert noted, «Often children trust everything adults say – this is exactly what internet fraudsters take advantage of. It`s important to explain to your child not to trust strangers online and to contact parents with any suspicions».
He recommended explaining to children that they should always seek help if contacted by an unknown person whose profile is empty or hidden (no friends, posts, or personal information). Such a contact might make strange requests, ask for personal data, bank card numbers, money, or photos.
Children should also check websites for safety and avoid resources with excessive advertising or promises of money or prizes. They should never agree to meet people they`ve only met online in person.
A critical piece of advice is not to use cameras or microphones when communicating with strangers, as modern technology can easily be used to create compromising material for potential blackmail.
Popov also advised parents to explore the internet together with their children initially, create strong passwords, and emphasize the importance of keeping them secret.
He reiterated that children`s lack of understanding about what is happening online is the fundamental basis for all dangers associated with cybercriminal activity.
In related news, Danil Filippov, Deputy Head of the Investigative Department of the Russian Ministry of Internal Affairs, reported that the damage to Russia from IT crimes exceeded 81 billion rubles in the first five months of 2025.
