The Top Cybersecurity Tips Every Parent Should Know for Their Kids’ Devices

As parents, we want to ensure that our children are safe—both in the real world and online. With kids using smartphones, tablets, and computers for school, entertainment, and socializing, the digital world has become a big part of their lives. But with this increased screen time comes the risk of cyber threats—from identity theft and phishing scams to inappropriate content and cyberbullying.

To help you protect your kids in the digital space, here are the top cybersecurity tips every parent should know for their kids’ devices.

1. Use Parental Controls to Set Boundaries

Every device—whether it's a smartphone, tablet, or gaming console—comes with built-in parental controls that allow you to set limits on what your kids can do. These controls can restrict app downloads, block inappropriate content, and monitor screen time. Some devices even allow you to set geofencing alerts, so you’re notified if your child goes beyond a certain area.

Pro Tip: Make sure your kids’ devices are set up with these controls from the start. Regularly check the settings to ensure the filters and restrictions are still active.

2. Set Up Strong Passwords and Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA)

A strong password is your first line of defense against unauthorized access to your child’s online accounts. Passwords should be at least 12 characters long, include a mix of letters, numbers, and special characters, and avoid easily guessed info like names or birthdays.

Additionally, enable multi-factor authentication (MFA) whenever possible. MFA requires an extra verification step—like a code sent to your phone—making it harder for hackers to gain access, even if they have your password.

Pro Tip: Encourage your kids to use a password manager to keep track of their passwords, especially as they start using multiple devices and apps.

3. Educate Your Kids About Phishing Scams

Phishing scams are one of the most common ways cybercriminals try to steal personal information. These scams typically come in the form of emails, text messages, or pop-ups that seem like they’re from legitimate sources (like schools, banks, or app stores), but are actually designed to trick your child into sharing personal details or clicking on harmful links.

Pro Tip: Teach your kids to never click on links or open attachments from unknown senders, and always double-check with you or an adult before responding to suspicious messages.

4. Monitor Online Activity and Social Media Usage

Social media platforms are great for keeping kids connected, but they also come with their own set of risks. Cyberbullying, inappropriate content, and contact with strangers are all dangers lurking online. Set clear boundaries for the apps and websites your kids can access, and always keep track of the platforms they use.

If your child has a social media account, make sure their privacy settings are set to “private” and review their friend/follower lists regularly.

Pro Tip: Have open, honest conversations with your kids about what they’re doing online and who they’re interacting with. Encourage them to come to you if anything makes them feel uncomfortable.

5. Be Cautious with Public Wi-Fi

Public Wi-Fi is convenient, but it’s also a major cybersecurity risk. When your kids use public Wi-Fi (in places like coffee shops or airports), their personal data is more vulnerable to being intercepted by cybercriminals. Avoid conducting any sensitive activities—like logging into online banking or shopping accounts—while connected to public networks.

Pro Tip: If your child must use public Wi-Fi, make sure they connect to a Virtual Private Network (VPN), which encrypts their data and provides an added layer of protection.

6. Regularly Update Devices and Software

Keeping devices and apps updated is one of the easiest ways to ensure they stay secure. Manufacturers regularly release updates that fix security vulnerabilities, so staying up-to-date helps protect your child’s devices from potential threats.

Pro Tip: Turn on automatic updates for both operating systems and apps, so your child’s devices are always running the latest and safest versions.

7. Set Screen Time Limits and Encourage Breaks

While not strictly a cybersecurity issue, managing your child's screen time is an important part of creating a balanced, healthy digital environment. Too much screen time can expose kids to more online dangers, and it also impacts their physical and mental well-being.

Set clear limits on how long your kids can use devices each day, and encourage them to take regular breaks to rest their eyes and engage in other activities.

Pro Tip: Use parental control apps to track screen time and set usage limits on apps and games.

8. Teach Your Kids the Importance of Digital Footprints

The internet never forgets. Encourage your kids to be mindful of the information they share online. Whether it’s social media posts, photos, or even comments on websites, all of it contributes to their digital footprint.

Teach them that what they put online can stay there forever and may affect their reputation in the future—whether it's for college admissions, job opportunities, or personal safety.

Pro Tip: Help your kids understand that anything they share online can potentially be seen by anyone, including strangers. Encourage them to think twice before posting anything.

9. Secure Your Home Network

The first line of defense against cybercriminals trying to access your devices is a secure home Wi-Fi network. Make sure your home router is password-protected and that you’ve enabled encryption (usually WPA2 or WPA3).

If your internet service provider offers an additional layer of security (such as firewall protection), take advantage of it.

Pro Tip: Create a unique, strong password for your Wi-Fi network that is different from your default router password. Consider setting up a guest network for visitors so your main network remains private.

10. Discuss the Dangers of In-App Purchases

In-app purchases can be fun for kids, but they can also lead to unexpected bills. Many mobile games and apps offer free versions that are supported by microtransactions, which can be tempting for kids to click on. Ensure that app stores are set to require a password for purchases, and talk to your kids about the importance of being careful with in-app purchases.

Pro Tip: Disable or limit in-app purchases in the settings to prevent accidental or unauthorized purchases.

Wrapping Up

While technology has opened up a world of opportunities for kids, it has also introduced new risks. By taking proactive steps to protect their devices and educate them on the dangers of the online world, you can help ensure that your kids have a safe and secure digital experience.

As a parent, it’s essential to stay informed and involved in your child’s online life. With these cybersecurity tips in mind, you can protect your kids from cyber threats and give them the knowledge they need to navigate the digital world confidently and safely.

Need help securing your family’s devices? Contact us today to learn more about how you can protect your loved ones from online threats.