Children warned to beware of menaces on the internet

DUBAI // Most children who have access to the internet are aware that they need to be cautious, even if they do not necessarily understand what kinds of dangers are out there.

Nadine Demascarel, a clinical psychologist at Jumeirah Primary School, said that children should turn off the computer and tell an adult if they feel anxious about something they’ve seen online.

“Some children may feel they cannot tell their parents, especially if it’s something sexual, but we encourage them to tell an adult, maybe a teacher or a counsellor,” she said. “Otherwise, the brain keeps these pictures in their heads, leading to nightmares or anxiety.”

Ms Demascarel also said that it is important that parents do not tell their child off if they say they have seen or stumbled upon something inappropriate, such as pornography.

“It’s important that lines of communication remain open,” she said.

Nine-year-old Sneha Janardhan said she is only allowed to use the laptop in the living room.

“If someone says anything mean, I shut down the computer and tell my parents straight away,” she said.

Abby Hogan, also 9, said she has to ask permission before using the laptop.

“I think they want me to ask for permission because people could hack you or pass on viruses,” she said. “I only use the laptop for school and for online homework.”

Emily Davidson, 11, understands that there are people online who pose as someone they’re not.

“My mum doesn’t allow me to have a Facebook or an Instagram account and I don’t think they are all that important because you should live your life outside,” she said. “I know there are dangers on the internet.”

Eleven-year-old Rayan Shafeek, who is also not allowed on social media websites, said that there are rules to using the internet at home.

“I have my own iPad, but I have to use it in the living room,” he said.

Nonny Haines, 10, shares a laptop with her teenage sister and is allowed access to Facebook and Instagram.

“The accounts are private, but I do let strangers sometimes follow me on Instagram because I don’t post pictures of myself, but random things,” she said.

“I have received requests from people I don’t know, but I don’t accept them. I have maybe 30 friends and family on Facebook. I would never give anyone my personal information.”

Zaara Ahmad, 10, said she had a Skype account and had recently downloaded Snapchat, where people send photos to friends that then automatically delete.

“My parents wanted to see what it was first because they weren’t comfortable with me having it,” she said. “My parents check my Skype account, too. I think my parents are strict because they said they didn’t have this stuff.”

“I’m not allowed Facebook just yet because I’m too young, but my dad said maybe when I’m 43.”

dmoukhallati@thenational.ae