The dark side of the internet : are children and parents aware?

Abstract

This study explores the level of awareness amongst parents and children in relation to Internet safety and its proper use. It examines whether parents in particular, use any preventive techniques to safeguard their children from falling victims to cyber crime. It also looks into the parents' perceptions of teenagers' on line safety, victimisation and risky behaviour. As responsible parents and as a community, protecting children from harmful content should be one of the highest priorities however this is becoming increasing difficult with internet access easily available. Through a quantitative research with both the parents and their children, this study explores whether the protection of children is the parents' highest priority and what, if any, methods parents use to improve the safety of teenagers when using the Internet. Also two short semi-structured in depth interviews with open ended questions were used whereby an official from the Cyber Crime Unit, Malta Police and an educator were asked to cover different themes of the study. This facilitated the accomplished detailed and qualitative information which was gathered for this dissertation. Though research indicates that a level of awareness does exist, this study has identified that further work is needed so awareness becomes more effective, most importantly among teenagers. It is essential for parents to understand that they have a very important role when it comes to educating their children on Internet safety and responsible use. Finally the study also suggests ways of further research that may help to establish a safer environment in which teenagers and children can enjoy a safer online experience.