The rapid rise of artificial intelligence (AI) is creating new online risks for children, making digital awareness more important than ever, according to a child protection expert.
Cyberspace Unit Child Protection officer Major Bashayer Al Dhaen said parents should not only monitor their children’s online activity but also equip them with the knowledge and confidence needed to protect themselves in the evolving digital world.
“Among the most significant risks children face today are interacting with strangers, cyberbullying, online extortion, and the theft of accounts or personal data, as well as exposure to age-inappropriate content,” Major Al Dhaen said during a radio interview.
“While supervision is crucial, it is not enough on its own; active follow-up is essential.
“Most importantly, we must teach children how to protect themselves in the digital space and monitor their use of technology in a manner appropriate to their age and level of understanding.”
She stressed the importance of teaching children not to share personal information, passwords or private photographs, while exercising caution when communicating with strangers online.
Parents should also pay attention to sudden changes in their children’s behaviour, she said, including signs of anxiety or fear after using a phone, or a new tendency to hide conversations or interactions with unknown people.
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Major Al Dhaen
Major Al Dhaen explained that the rise of generative AI has made it increasingly difficult for people to distinguish genuine content from fabricated material.
“Social media is not what it used to be,” she said, noting that AI can now be used to create fabricated images, sounds and videos that appear authentic.
“Therefore, we should not rely on any content before verifying its source, even if the image is clear or the sound is convincing.”
Major Al Dhaen said the same caution should be exercised when dealing with online harassment and cyberbullying. She noted that there is a clear distinction between expressing an opinion and engaging in abuse, threats, incitement or behaviour that infringes on another person’s rights.
“Think carefully before posting or commenting,” she urged, encouraging users to consider whether what they are saying is a respectful expression of opinion or could amount to abuse, threats or an infringement of another person’s rights.
For families, Major Al Dhaen said digital protection should begin with communication and trust rather than the imposition of restrictions.
“Children should feel that their family is a source of safety and that they can speak openly about any situation they encounter without fear or hesitation,” she said.
She recommended establishing clear rules around the use of devices and applications, while maintaining an open dialogue about children’s online experiences.
“If a child encounters a problem, the parents’ initial response should be to listen and handle the situation with understanding rather than resorting to blame or punishment,” she said.
“This ensures children feel they can always turn to their families when facing danger or any difficult situation.”
Her message to young people was to make the most of technology while taking steps to protect their privacy. She urged them not to share passwords, personal information or private photographs, and to exercise caution when communicating with strangers online.
“If you face any threats, blackmail, or situations that cause fear or discomfort, do not try to handle them alone; speak immediately to your family or a trusted adult,” she said.
“Ultimately, technology has become an integral part of our lives. Our goal is not to shun it, but to use it consciously and responsibly, thereby raising a generation capable of benefiting from it while simultaneously protecting themselves.”
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