UAE parents warned over cyber criminal threat for children online

Parents should be aware that cyber criminals can target children, experts have said ahead of a Dubai cyber security event.

DUBAI // Cyber criminals not only target personal information and vital infrastructure, but some may target children, parents have been warned.

Parents should be aware that electronic devices such as laptops and mobile phones can easily be compromised by cyber criminals, said Mahesh Vaidya, chief executive of ISIT, a data storage and security company based in Dubai.

He spoke ahead of a cybersecurity event taking place in Dubai on Sunday as part of the EdTech Meetup, an initiative between two Dubai technology companies.

The internet can be a safe medium as long as users are aware of where they are navigating, said Mr Vaidya, who will speak at the event.

“The internet is like any metropolitan city,” he said. “There are places you should visit cautiously or even avoid. Education on what to do and not to do on the internet is a very important aspect of cybersecurity.”

Once they gain access, cyber criminals or a even a stalker can monitor a child’s day-to-day activities, said Mr Vaidya.

“Children should not click on unknown web links that are sent to them via email, SMS, or instant messages,” he said.

“Young children might also visit illicit websites, some of which will download malicious code onto their devices which can, for example, take video and pictures of them using the webcam without them knowing.”

Mr Vaidya said his talk on Sunday would address threats and the methods parents can employ to enhance their security, such as installing antivirus software with built-in tools that can help monitor their children’s internet activity.

Also speaking at the event is Jennifer Christianson, senior manager of forensic technology and discovery services for the Middle East and North Africa region at Ernst and Young, a professional services company.

“The internet can be a valuable educational tool and is a necessity in stimulating the development of a child’s education and intelligence in today’s world,” said Laura Toma, event organiser and director at the Coding Circle, which teaches children computer programming skills.

“While controlling and monitoring internet usage is vital, the extent of control varies with age and becomes less restrictive while the child grows both mentally and physically.”

The event takes place on Sunday in Dubai at the Marina Plaza.