Islamabad, Feb 21: A recent study has revealed that 89% of parents use digital devices to keep their children engaged, whether during travel or to carve out some personal time. According to a press release by Kaspersky, a leading cybersecurity firm, over half (53%) of children in the Middle East, Turkiye, and Africa (META) region receive their first smartphone or tablet between the ages of three and seven.
Despite this growing reliance on technology, 22% of parents admitted they have never discussed online safety with their children. This lack of awareness is concerning, as many kids use these devices without supervision, increasing their exposure to cyber risks. Furthermore, the survey found that 78% of children claim they cannot imagine life without their gadgets, with smartphones, tablets, and gaming consoles ranking as their preferred devices.
Seifallah Jedidi, Head of Consumer Channel at Kaspersky (META), pointed out that while technology offers convenience, unregulated screen time can be harmful. He advised parents to actively monitor their children’s digital activities by setting boundaries on screen time and fostering open discussions about safe online habits.
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Jedidi emphasized that using parental control tools is not about distrust but about ensuring a secure online environment. These tools help:
- Restrict access to inappropriate content
- Block downloads from unverified sources
- Prevent accidental sharing of personal information
He further highlighted that Kaspersky’s advanced security solutions protect children and families from cyber threats, ensuring a safer digital experience. By combining technology with responsible parenting, families can strike a healthy balance between digital entertainment and online safety.
