From digital curfews to blocking apps: How technology experts protect their children online

"For two decades, the number of Google searches on parental control has grown unceasingly. The internet allows minors to stay in touch with their friends, access information and develop skills. Still, the digital world also involves certain risks, such as the loss of privacy, cyberattacks, identity theft, fraud and exposure to inappropriate content. As more and more parents seek out training on digital security, technology experts have a privileged perspective when it comes to dangers and solutions online."

"For schoolwork that requires one, and for entertainment purposes, they use a tablet or the computer. At their house, devices are shared: They are not exclusively theirs, but rather, a loan, and are always used in common areas like the kitchen or the living room, says Murciego. If her kids have to utilize a phone for a school assignment, and are doing the work in their study areas, the door stays open."

"The children still don't have their own social media accounts, but do have an agreement with their parents as to their screen time. Carerra also recommends getting to know kids' digital environment. It's not about becoming tech experts, but having a basic understanding of the most popular apps, which ones they like best, what they use them for, who they talk to online, etc. Carrera teaches her children to take the same precautions online as they do on the street."

Searches for parental control have increased steadily over two decades. The internet enables minors to communicate, access information and develop skills while introducing risks such as privacy loss, cyberattacks, identity theft, fraud and exposure to inappropriate content. Technology experts in cybersecurity, data protection and cyberattack fields recommend practical measures for families. Elena Carrera Murciego keeps devices shared and used in common areas, requires open doors when phones are used for schoolwork, uses parental controls to block sites and app downloads, prohibits social media accounts for her children and sets agreed screen-time limits. She advises parents to learn the basics of popular apps and teach online precautions similar to street safety.

Read at english.elpais.com