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Online Safety for Kids: Beyond Restrictions

Keeping Kids Safe Online: Beyond Restriction and Monitoring

May 18, 2024

While online safety for children is a bipartisan concern, proposed solutions like the Kids Online Safety Act (KOSA) and the Protecting Kids on Social Media Act might be misguided.

This press release by the Center for Democracy & Technology (CDT) argues that these bills, focused on restricting content and monitoring activity, are ineffective and potentially harmful.

Online Safety for Kids: Beyond Restrictions

The Flawed Approach of Restriction

CDT highlights research indicating restriction hinders access to vital information on health, safety, and development. It discourages exploration of online resources and hinders the development of critical digital literacy skills.

Online Safety for Kids: Beyond Restrictions

Monitoring Breeds Distrust

Parental monitoring tools, another proposed solution, erode trust and limit digital competency. Studies show these tools have little to no positive impact and can damage parent-child relationships.

Building Digital Resilience

Instead of restrictions, CDT proposes a focus on equipping young people with the tools to navigate the web safely. This includes:

  • Privacy Legislation: Supporting the American Privacy Rights Act (APRA) to minimize data collection and deter targeting of harmful content towards children.
  • Social Media Platform Tools: Platforms should offer more content and interaction control options for kids and parents.
  • Thoughtful Platform Design: Features like default private profiles, stranger interaction warnings, and content warnings can empower safer online experiences.
  • Active Parental Mediation: Trusted adults can engage with children's online activity, fostering open communication and building safety skills.

Online Safety for Kids: Beyond Restrictions

Focus on Solutions, Not Feel-Good Measures

CDT emphasizes the importance of results-oriented solutions that empower children and prioritize privacy. Eroding trust and hindering digital development are not the answers to online safety.