More and more youngsters are being allowed unsupervised access to the internet in order to meet and chat with friends. What dangers could result from this? How can these dangers be prevented?

In this essay, I will be discussing the dangers that can result from unsupervised access to the internet by youngsters. I will explain how strangers cause cyber bullying followed by the idea of communication between parents and children. Firstly, meeting strangers online may cause cyberbullying. Life threatening and humiliating posts of youths can be shared online between peers on social media platforms. According to the Cable News Network, recent research shows that 51 percent of youngsters online have been victims of cyberbullying. In addition, friends can share private information without consent on the internet and this could lead to depression or suicide. However, people online could help in academics. knowledge and ideas about different subjects and topics can be discussed online. Secondly, Parents should communicate with their children. Being aware of who their wards are talking with online is crucial to protect them. An article by Fatmah Sadid, the Head of the Child Protection states that ‘protective measures should be taken seriously with children’. In addition, these protective measures ensure the child’s safety and can prevent fraudsters from causing harm to them. In sum, although strangers online can cause harm to youths by cyberbullying, parents should communicate with their children to prevent fraud. I strongly believe that parents should know who their wards are in contact with. Therefore, children should be enlightened on the pros and cons of using the internet to speak with friends.