Kids Falling Victim to Online Scams: Better Business Bureau Warns Parents
In a world where technology is an essential part of daily life, American families, including children, are increasingly becoming targets for scammers. According to the Better Business Bureau (BBB), more than half of American kids under the age of 11 now own a smartphone, making them vulnerable to various online scams.
Robyn Householder, president and CEO of the BBB Serving Middle Tennessee and Southern Kentucky, emphasized the importance of parents in protecting their children from online scams. She recommended educating both parents and kids about the dangers of the internet, setting clear rules, and using the right tools to create a safer digital environment for the whole family.
The BBB highlighted various online scams that children are susceptible to, including social media scams, cell phone scams, video game scams, and webcam security scams. To shield children from these threats, the BBB provided suggestions for parents, such as introducing scam awareness, educating on risks, establishing rules, addressing inappropriate content, monitoring downloads, and investing in security software.
If parents come across suspected fraud, they are encouraged to report it to the BBB’s Scam Tracker and contact the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) online or by phone.
In an ever-evolving digital landscape, it is crucial for parents to stay informed and proactive in protecting their children from online scams. By implementing the suggested strategies, parents can help create a safer online environment for their kids.
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