CYBER HYGIENE: ENHANCING CYBER HYGIENE PRACTICES TO MITIGATE CHILD EXPLOITATION IN THE ONLINE ENVIRONMENT

Abstract

The study examines how cyber hygiene reduces online child exploitation. Child exploitation, a term that incorporates a range of abusive and exploitative behaviors, has emerged as a significant and urgent issue in the era of digital technology (UNICEF, 2021). It analyzes current practices, their effects on child safety, and improvement ideas using a literature study. This study advises improving cyber hygiene to reduce online child exploitation. Using a comprehensive literature analysis and systematic review, the study will identify child exploitation vulnerabilities in current cyber hygiene practices and create specific suggestions for individuals, parents, educators, and organizations. Stakeholder feedback will inform incremental changes as the proposed enhancements are pilot tested and validated in realworld circumstances. Policy implications and advocacy for legislative initiatives, industry standards, and stakeholder collaboration to improve cyber hygiene will also be examined. This study seeks to improve children's well-being in the digital age by providing evidence-based online safety strategies. The findings show that user education, technology solutions, and collaboration are needed to safeguard children from online exploitation. The study finishes with recommendations for governments, educators, and technology corporations to improve cyber hygiene and protect children online.