Essential Digital Safety Rules for Children from Cybersecurity Expert

October 5, 2025 - 10:34

Cybersecurity veteran Ben Gillenwater, drawing on his extensive experience with the NSA, emphasizes the importance of safeguarding children in the digital landscape. He outlines five crucial rules that parents should adhere to in order to ensure their kids remain safe online.

First and foremost, Gillenwater advises against allowing children to share personal information on social media platforms. This includes details such as their full name, address, and school, which can be exploited by malicious individuals.

Secondly, he strongly recommends that parents monitor their children's online activities. Regularly checking browsing history and app usage can help identify any potential risks or inappropriate content.

Third, Gillenwater highlights the necessity of setting strict privacy settings on social media accounts. This can significantly reduce the chances of unwanted interactions from strangers.

Moreover, he stresses the importance of educating children about the dangers of online communication, including the potential for cyberbullying and predatory behavior.

Lastly, he advocates for the use of robust security measures, such as strong passwords and two-factor authentication, to protect personal accounts. By implementing these strategies, parents can create a safer online environment for their children.