PROTECTING KIDS ONLINE NEEDS MORE THAN PARENTAL CONTROLS

Parental controls and restrictions have long been the primary defense against online risks for children. However, industry experts argue this strategy falls short of the broader protections young users need. Jules Polonetsky, CEO of the Future of Privacy Forum, emphasizes that safeguarding minors requires a multifaceted approach beyond traditional monitoring tools. The limitations of parental controls become apparent as children grow older and online environments become increasingly complex. Effective child protection online involves multiple stakeholders. Platforms must implement age-appropriate design standards and stronger default privacy settings. Schools and educators need digital literacy programs that teach critical thinking about online content. Policymakers should establish clear accountability standards for tech companies. Parents remain important, but their role should complement systemic safeguards rather than serve as the sole defense. As digital environments continue evolving, so must protection strategies that address emerging threats like algorithmic amplification, data exploitation, and manipulative design patterns targeting youth.