Yesterday was Safer Internet Day, a global observance aimed at reassessing digital safety practices for both adults and children when browsing the web. The initiative encourages discussions about the virtual spaces we use, with a focus on keeping them secure and safe. The Jacksonville Sheriff’s Office provided practical advice to help families adopt safer internet habits.

Central to the guidance is the "no secrets" rule, a simple yet important principle for young internet users. Similar to the stranger danger advice, it serves as a warning when online contacts say, "Don't tell your parents about this," indicating a conversation that may not be safe. It's also important to check location settings on apps and games to prevent inadvertently sharing one's whereabouts, as reported by the Jacksonville Sheriff’s Office.

As digital spaces continue to expand, parental vigilance must grow alongside them. It's not just about monitoring but also actively engaging with the content children are exposed to—testing apps for ads, inappropriate content, or chat features that don't meet safety standards before kids start using them. "If it doesn't feel right, skip it," advises the Sheriff’s Office, offering a guiding principle for parenting in the digital age.

Another key piece of advice is to cover cameras and mute microphones when not in use. The risk of cybercriminals using everyday devices for surveillance is a real concern in our interconnected world, where an unprotected webcam or microphone could compromise privacy or security.

While this year's Safer Internet Day has concluded, the conversation and ongoing efforts to update digital safety practices must continue. It is an ongoing process that involves everyone—parents, children, and internet users—working together to maintain digital security.