The Evolving Risks of Cyberstalking and Deepfakes Our Kids Need to Know About
Why Millennial Parents Are the Perfect Online Safety Guides
Do you remember the first time you explored the internet in the early 2000s? I vividly recall the thrill of entering a chatroom and getting instant responses from real people. That sense of adventure was unparalleled. We millennials were among the first to connect online, facing risks like cyberbullying, scams, and catfishing. Today, these risks persist, but advanced technology makes distinguishing fake from reality harder. Our children, with their increased online presence at young ages, are particularly vulnerable.
Social media advancements have made cyberstalking easier, while deepfake technology poses a growing concern for deception. We millennials have some advantages in recognizing fake content due to our early online experiences. However, our kids often lack an understanding of online safety complexities. Despite parental security measures, risks remain. Our responsibility is to stay informed and educate our children on safe practices.
(AI Assisted)
Cyberstalking and Catfishing Then vs. Now
Millennials inadvertently laid the foundation for modern catfishing and cyberstalking through early social media anonymity. I'll admit, I participated in this anonymity out of curiosity and entertainment. It was fun messing with strangers online without realizing the potential real-life consequences. What began as harmless entertainment evolved into more serious issues, as seen in the MySpace cyberbullying era and the "Catfish" phenomenon showcased in popular media.
Today's social media integration makes cyberbullying more immediate. Instant messaging is built into most apps, creating direct connections between users - even those who aren't friends or followers. People tend to overshare their lives online. Geo-tagging, for example, is often overlooked. We use it to show where pictures are taken but it can provide location information to anyone unless carefully managed.
It's easier than ever for cyberstalkers to interact with their victims by sending private messages or lurking on pages. While some security measures like private accounts and message request approvals help, modern technology enables catfishers to navigate past these safeguards more convincingly.
 
(Chinese vlogger who used filter to look younger caught in live-stream glitch - BBC)
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Deepfakes Are The Next Frontier of Catfishing
Traditionally, catfishing involves stolen photos to create fake romantic interests. Now, catfish accounts often impersonate family or friends to establish trust. Deepfake technology - which allows for face and audio swapping in videos - will likely contribute to more sophisticated catfishing and identity theft.Imagine a video call from what appears to be a family member in distress, asking for immediate financial help. Our kids, who understand content at face value, might struggle to distinguish these convincing fakes from reality. As these technologies advance, catfishers will have unprecedented abilities to create believable false identities.
Navigating Stranger Danger in a Digital Society
As the first generation of parents in a fully digital world, millennials must adapt "stranger danger" concepts to online spaces. Body language doesn't exist online, so we must teach our kids new ways to recognize suspicious behavior.Educate on Standard Internet Safety:
- Set up private account settings
- Connect only with known individuals
- Avoid sharing personal information
- Engage cautiously with others online
One way I stressed the importance of basic internet safety to my nieces and nephews is by telling them that internet monsters will come out of their devices to visit them if they aren't careful online. It's cliche, but similar to other traditional tall tales for kids to be careful when they play outside.
How to Identify Suspicious Profiles:
Visual indicators:
- Lack of profile picture
- Low-resolution photos
- Little to no content
- Burst of posts in a short time
- Bot-like comments
Behavioral red flags:
- Quickly getting personal
- Overly friendly
- Requesting secrecy
- Avoiding visual/audio proof of identity
- Asking for money
- Inappropriate messages
- Demanding or threatening attitude
Supporting Our Kids' Digital Journey
Rather than depriving kids of internet access, we should teach safe exploration early on. We know most people don't strictly follow the minimum age requirements for social media accounts. I won't pretend many of us didn't bend the rules when we first explored the internet in the mid-2000s. Our kids will likely find ways to make accounts just as we did. So, let's focus on guiding them:
- Encourage open communication about online experiences.
- Teach digital literacy and critical thinking through age-appropriate content. Watch videos together and discuss what's real versus entertainment.
- Stay updated on trends and platforms to understand what our kids might encounter.
As millennials who shaped the internet our kids use, we're uniquely positioned to guide them. By providing tools and support, we can help them navigate the digital world safely and develop social awareness that extends beyond the screen. Remember, our goal isn't to instill fear but to empower our kids with the tools they need to explore, learn, and connect safely in the digital age.
