If you’re shopping for internet-connected technology toys for kids, it is essential to understand the privacy and safety issues. Internet-connected toys range from wearable devices to interactive games and robots. To protect your child’s privacy and safety, follow these tips:
- Check age appropriateness: Make sure the toy is suitable for someone of your child’s age. For video games, check the content ratings provided by the Entertainment Software Rating Board (ESRB) at www.esrb.org.
- Understand toy features: Be aware of interactive features such as cameras, microphones and internet connectivity. Learn the default settings for each function.
- Familiarize yourself with parental controls: Parental controls should be included in the product. Under the Children’s Online Privacy Protection Act (COPPA), parents may have control over what personal information the toy or app collects.
- Do your research: Check trusted sources, such as online parental blogs, for known security issues related to the toy.
- Be present during setup: If personal information is required, use nicknames or alternative details to reduce the risk of identifying your child.
- Set privacy settings: Opt in to safeguards, block access to chat rooms and enable parental controls. Regularly update the toy’s software and check the settings.
- Interact with the toy: Learn how the toy operates. Discuss online safety, risky behaviors and in-app purchases with your child.
- Use strong passwords: Create unique, strong passwords for each account. Avoid connecting the toy to free public Wi-Fi, as it may be less secure than a home network. Always log out before shutting down the toy.
- Establish rules for device use: Discuss how to report inappropriate behavior online. Set house rules about where and when devices can be used, as well as limits on daily screen time.
For additional resources, the Federal Trade Commission offers free online publications to help keep kids safe online.
For more general cybersecurity tips, visit www.OhioAttorneyGeneral.gov and review the Cybersecurity Help, Information and Protection Program (CHIPP) booklet as well as Social Media Pointers for Parents.