Threats Targeting Children on Online Social Networks

Abstract

Today, practically everyone has access to the internet and owns some type of digital gadgets, such as a smartphone, laptop, tablet, etc. We live in a digital world where internet use is widespread. Nowadays, a growing number of children have access to the internet via portable electronic devices such as tablets, laptops, and gaming consoles. Online social networks (OSN) have become increasingly popular and are now widely used along with the rise of the internet. A large percentage of children worldwide have profiles on at least one online social networking site. Children register on these platforms so they can communicate with their peers, make new friends, share their interests and hobbies in the hopes of meeting someone who has similar ones, play games, and more. But in addition to the benefits and enjoyment that kids derive from social networks, there are also risks and dangers that specifically target children on OSN platforms. Online harassment, online predators, sexual solicitation, cyberbullying, and cyber grooming are all threats that target children on OSNs. This paper aims to bring awareness to parents and children about the potential dangers present on online social networking platforms and offers guidelines on how to better protect children in the social networking environment.