The Risks Of Technology For Children And Teenagers

Technology is present in adults’ daily lives. It is not different for children and teenagers. The digital environment, previously seen as a fun space of learning, now hides dangers that we cannot always see immediately. Among the main villains of this new reality is artificial intelligence, which has made it possible to create deepfakes. When it comes to cyberbullying, deepfakes increase the impact of the risks of technology for children and teenagers.

What are deepfakes and why are they dangerous?

With the popularization of social media, many parents share photos and videos of their children online, thinking that it is not a big deal. But this action can be more dangerous than it looks. Artificial intelligence (AI) tools are being used to manipulate these photos to create fake content, such as videos and pictures that look like real ones— deepfakes.

A simple picture of a mundane moment, such as a child’s birthday, can be used to create a deepfake. As a result of this deepfake, the kid can be exposed to humiliating and illegal situations. It is so scary, isn’t it? As a result, it is so important to be careful with what you share online. You should always set up social media privacy rules.

Cyberbullying: The Cruel Side of Technology

If bullying alone was already a big preoccupation, cyberbullying—bullying in the digital world—brings bigger challenges. With the help of AI, online harassment becomes constant, once the attacks can be more automated. That means the victim can be bombed by hatred messages and threats, with no time to breathe.

Deepfakes can also have a devastating impact on the self-esteem of young people, leading to anxiety and depression. The most worrying thing is that victims often do not know how to deal with these situations, and feel alone and powerless.

Young people man and woman using technology gadget smartphone mobile phone tablet pc laptop computer in social network communication concept flat design cartoon style with copy space. — Young people men and women use technology gadgets smartphones mobile phones tablets pc laptops computers in social network communication concept flat design cartoon style with copy space. Image: Adobe Stock.

AI Dependence and The Loss of Critical Thinking

The excessive use of AI tools, such as virtual assistants or programs that generate text and images, can harm the development of critical thinking in young people. They become dependent on technology to solve problems and interpret information, which makes them more vulnerable to manipulated or misleading content.

It is essential that young people are encouraged to question what they consume online, and develop the ability to discern what is real and what is fake.

How to Protect Children in The Digital World?

The good news is that there are simple ways to protect children and adolescents from these invisible risks. Here are some practical tips to ensure safer use of technology:

Adjust privacy settings: On social networks, make sure that children’s posts are visible only to trusted friends and family.
Avoid sharing real-time locations: This practice can expose children to unnecessary dangers.
Limit screen time: Excessive use of digital devices can have negative effects. For children aged 2 to 5, the recommended maximum is one hour per day. For teenagers, the ideal is between two and three hours per day, always balancing online time with physical activities and face-to-face interactions.

Technology is part of the lives of children and teenagers, but it is essential that parents and guardians are aware of the risks that are not always visible. The popularization of deepfakes and the growth of cyberbullying bring new challenges, but with the adoption of good practices and an extra dose of care, it is possible to create a safer digital environment for young people. After all, the digital world should be a space for learning and fun, not fear and insecurity.

Read more articles related to tips for youth and parenting on our Zealousness blog Parenting – iN Education Inc. (ineducationonline.org).