How to make online classes safe for your children from digital threats

Accept it or not we are now living in a “new normal” where the world has changed dramatically. A year ago it would have been hard to believe that children would have to take online classes from home instead of going to school. But it has happened and like it or not we are living in that reality.

It is not an easy situation to be in, especially for children. Those carefree and happy days of going to school, meeting friends, doing a project together, playing in the open – they all look like a distant dream now. However, life has to move on and children’s education cannot at any cost take a hit.

Conducting online classes from the safety of homes is the next best thing to continue children’s education. However, in a lot of scenarios, online classes might come with its own set of problems. Given that the online threat landscape is growing and data security and protection are taking a hard blow, it’s important that we are aware of the risks that might be associated with online classes.

Most online classes are held through third party video conferencing platforms and apps, some of which have had vulnerabilities and security issues in the past.

No matter which platform is used for your child’s online classes, here are a few things that you must keep in mind to provide your child with a safe and secure online environment.

1. Secure Wi-Fi- networks: Make sure you always connect to the Internet via a secure Wi-Fi network. Never connect via public Wi-Fi’s, their security parameters might be compromised. Always have your Wi-Fi network protected with a strong username and password. Click here to know ways you can make your Wi-Fi network secure.

2. Parental Control: While taking online classes your child might require to explore the Internet. Make sure that you block suspicious and malicious websites and all other content that might not be child friendly. You can do that by using the Parental Control feature of Quick Heal Total Security.

3. Get involved: Guide your children and help get acquainted with the online world. Educate them about good digital habits and talk to them about any difficulties that they might be facing. Get involved with them in their new journey of taking online classes. Be present and extend your support as much as you can.

4. Webcam protection: Online classes majorly rely on video cameras. Keep your child protected unsolicited websites that might access your webcam without your authority. Quick Heal Total Security’s webcam protection feature safeguards your privacy and prevents extortion attempts. It blocks spying agents and apps from accessing your web camera.

5. Educate them about online threats: From an early age, children should be made aware that the online world has some threats that they should always stay away from. Inform them about viruses, malicious websites, data-stealing practices, etc. Teach them the basic dos and don’ts like never open an attachment from an unknown email, do not share your passwords with anyone, do not click on links that look suspicious. Educating children about cybersecurity and threats is a great practice.

Better late than never, with these hygiene points in mind you can make sure your child has a safe and secure digital experience while he/she enjoys online classes.