As concerns about social media use among children continue to grow, it is essential to stay informed and establish safety measures. Regularly review the privacy settings of any apps your children use. Ensure that account settings are private. Always block strangers, disable location services, and limit live chats.
We encourage parents and caregivers to engage in open discussions with their families to establish boundaries around technology usage. This includes avoiding secret passwords and setting specific times for when devices can be used. It’s important to regularly check your children’s online activity by reviewing their friends’ lists, contacts, and content that they have posted or shared.
Remind your family that personal information should never be shared online. Be selective about what you share and with whom. If you’re unsure whether something should be posted, it’s best not to post it at all.
Monitoring apps and platforms that you’re not familiar with can feel overwhelming. There are many parental control apps available that can help you keep track of online activity. Take the time to research these options and find the ones that best suit your family’s needs.
Stay informed about the latest and trending social media apps. Remember, education is essential. The more you know, the safer you can be. Educate yourself and your children.
For more information or to contact my office, please visit www.orangecountygov.com and click on the Sheriff’s Office links or contact us at OCNYSheriff@orangecountygov.com.
