In the era of accessible and affordable internet and technology, perpetrators are misusing the internet to continue their illicit activities without having to leave their house. The phrase ‘stranger danger’ no longer applies only to the real world, but in the online spaces as well. Children, who are active users of the internet are now exposed to many forms of online threats.
Personal experiences of children
The Covid-19 pandemic accelerated the reach of technology to the last mile. During this period, while we were occupied buying the latest technology devices for children to continue their learning, some people with ill intentions were looking for loopholes and ways to leverage technology to abuse and exploit children for their personal gains. The National Crime Reports Bureau (NCRB, 2021) reported that cybercrimes committed against children witnessed a sharp rise of more than 400 percent in 2020 from those committed in 2019. As crimes like sextortion and live streaming of child sexual abuse increased rapidly, children remained unaware and fell prey to these crimes.
Priya* from Odisha shares a horrifying experience of her friend Anjali* who had developed a friendship with an unknown person on Facebook. “After chatting for a couple of weeks, they became close and built a trust. They began sharing their photos to one each. One time, the guy asked her to share an objectionable photo of herself and she did. The guy then started taking advantage of her and even published her photo on social media.”
Victims of such crimes are affected mentally, emotionally and sometimes physically, for some even into their adulthood. Moreover, children are exposed to harmful content every day including fake information, AI generated materials especially those with sexually explicit nature.
“One evening, I was playing mobile video game. There was a pop up and I clicked on it. Suddenly, a video of a woman dancing strangely began to play. I quickly turned the phone off. But that image troubled me for a long time”, 12-year-old Alok* from Maharashtra shares his experience. And this is the experience of many children. It is alarming to think about this as the downside of children being children who are curious wanting to explore, learn and build connections.
These testimonials from children reinforces the reality of the internet. However, children can be guided to navigate the internet safely and reap the benefits it has to offer. Mansi*, a 14-year-old recognises the dangers of the internet. She says, “Internet is not bad or good, but the person’s usage makes it bad or good. The Internet is beneficial for education, to gain knowledge on different topics to prepare for competitive exams which is financially lower cost for her parents”.
Mansi’s perspective shows us that with awareness, we can ensure that children mindfully and safely use the internet for its benefits.
Growing concerns among parents
The biggest challenge for many parents is staying ahead of technology. Not only do they struggle with staying on track with their children’s online activities, but most are unaware about using appropriate protective online measures.
In the ever-evolving world of technology, where the parents mostly depend on their children for technological trouble shooting of their digital devices the biggest challenge for parents is to track their children’s online activities. Parents are struggling to stay ahead of technology and are unaware about using appropriate protective measures.
Shobha*, a mother and member of School Management Committee says, “In my role, I encounter many grievances from parents. As most of them are uneducated and illiterate, they are struggling with technology and keeping track of their children’s online activities. When they ask their children about it, they respond saying it is schoolwork.”
These concerns amongst parents puts them in an impossible situation, balancing between digital engagement and safety concerns. Parents, like their children need support and guidance on firstly, awareness on digital threats and secondly, how to implement protective security measures without violating their children’s privacy. Only then can they feel confident about their children being active users of the internet.
Mohan*, a father of two says, “A parent cannot protect their children all the time, so we must teach them how they can protect themselves. Talk to them about good/bad touch, about staying safe online. We must teach our children to live confidently, free from fear.” At the core, being an informed parent, having open conversations and creating a safe space for children to confide is imperative to help children navigate the online spaces safely and confidently.
Government’s efforts in addressing online safety concerns
The government plays a critical role in addressing the issue of online exploitation and abuse of children through developing robust policies and implementing them. As technologies evolve, it is essential for people responsible for protecting children are up to date with the latest technologies and to address any issues that may harm children. Several child protection bodies under the state government such as Maharashtra, Karnataka and Odisha are actively working towards ensuring that children have a positive online experience. They are promoting digital literacy and awareness on online safety among key stakeholder i.e. children, parents, child protection professionals, policy makers and more.
“To effectively combat issues of cybercrime, we are working with ChildFund India to understand the root causes through an in-depth study. We are collaborating with different government stakeholder like the education and women and child development”, says K Naganna Gowda, Hon’ble Chairperson, Karnataka State Commission for protection of Child Rights (KSCPCR). Other states like Maharashtra are working to train stakeholders like the Child protection officers, the Police, Women and Child Officers on this issue, equipping them with knowledge and resource to ensure children feel safe and protected while using the internet.
While the government works to protect children through legislation, creating a supportive system and developing stronger policies, children remain vulnerable, and parents’ concerns remain. Technology companies and educational institutions must take a proactive role in addressing this issue as children spent most of their time online and at school. Hence, it holds a greater importance that all the stakeholders work in coordination. Additionally, as a society, we must address the stigma around reporting and victim shaming and encourage victims to come forward. Only then can we punish the perpetrators through the law and in the process, protect more children from potential harm.
*name changed for confidentiality
Written by: Vilo K Awomi (Officer, Communications – ChildFund International)
