Editor’s Note:
With recent issues surrounding the resurgence of the YouTube Momo Challenge threat to children, and ongoing concerns about inappropriate activities teens sometimes engage in online, Prime has teamed up with Awareness Technologies to present information on ways parents and grandparents can help keep kids safe in the digital age. This first article addresses the challenge of keeping teens safe online.
By Jillian Kennedy
Awareness Technologies, special to Prime
Are you prepared for all the new responsibilities that come with parenting in the “digital age?”
We have become immersed in a new way of living that many parents and grandparents certainly did not grow up in. Though many of us may struggle to navigate this modern age, our children and grandchildren seem to be able to do it without hesitation.
But even if it may look like they are conquering this digital age effortlessly, it is important you do not turn a blind eye to their online activities.
Teens don’t know best
Online dangers are prevalent, and teens cannot be expected to exercise the judgment and maturity needed to operate these powerful devices without appropriate supervision. Some parents and grandparents are reluctant to use technology to supervise their kids and grandkids, but they must understand it is their responsibility to monitor their kid’s and grandkid’s technology usage, as they would any risky activities they may be involved in.
Luckily today, there are several parental monitoring apps, such as WebWatcher, that can help. WebWatcher records all device activity including text and private messaging content, social media, web browser history and searches, photos, GPS locations and more. It is highly recommended because of its Alert Log feature, which scans all recorded data from your child’s device and uses intelligent filters to identify risky behavior.
Parents and grandparents then receive real-time alerts of all highlighted risky behavior, which means they can just focus their attention on what is important while respecting privacy boundaries. But if needed, all recorded data is available for review at any time.
Be up-front about your concerns
If you decide to take advantage of the many benefits a parental monitoring app provides, it is recommended that you talk to your kids/grandkids about it. Explain to them that they shouldn’t take part in any activities on their phone that they wouldn’t want their parents or grandparents to see. This includes, but is not limited to, sexting, engaging with risky apps, conversing with strangers, and cyber bullying.
Be honest with them
Open communication is key to setting appropriate limits with your children or grandchildren on their technology usage. By using control and/or monitoring apps, children may feel as if you are overstepping and not giving them their privacy. You must remind them that having a phone is privilege, and if not used responsibly can be taken away at any time. Depending on your child’s/grandchild’s age, you must set rules that are reasonable. At first, your child/grandchild may resent the new restrictions, but years from now when they are applying to colleges and jobs, they will thank you for their clean digital footprint.
An offer for Prime readers
With that said, learn how you can take advantage of WebWatcher today and all Prime readers will receive a 50 percent savings at check out on an annual subscription when they use code “PRIME” (make sure to click Add to Cart). See below for full signup instructions.
Getting started with WebWatcher
WebWatcher is very easy to install and all the directions appear right on your screen. To begin you will need to go to www.webwatcher.com. As you scroll down the vibrant WebWatcher homepage, you will start to come across different devices. WebWatcher is compatible with Android, iPhone/iPad, PC, Mac and Chromebook. It is crucial you know exactly what type of phone or computer your child or grandchild has and that you will be able to have access to it for the installation process.
When you are ready, you will click on the “Add to Cart” button below the type of device used by your child/grandchild. This will bring you to a page where you can choose a monthly, quarterly or annual subscription, but please remember the discount is only eligible for annual subscriptions. From that point on, you will follow the simple instructions on your screen, and you will have WebWatcher up and running in no time! While it is fairly simple to install, we offer 24/7 customer service via live chat if you need any assistance.
Jillian Kennedy is the marketing coordinator for Awareness Technologies, creators of digital monitoring services including WebWatcher. For more information on the services they provide visit www.webwatcher.com.
