Secure Digital Parenting-Challenges Way Forward Final Report

Across the globe, there has been a phenomenal expansion in the use of Information and Communication Technologies. The increasing number of people having personal computers, laptops, or android phones and easy access to the internet has reshaped the digital lives of millions of people. Among other technological innovations, internet use is spreading rapidly in daily life. Since the internet has infiltrated our daily lives, millions of people have started using the internet for multiple purposes. The emergence of the COVID-19 pandemic has increased and expanded the internet engagement of the people in their lives. As a result, families, and schools are allowing more flexibility in terms of technology use, particularly in the context of online learning. However, the flexibility and expansion of the technology use have also created several risks and vulnerabilities. In this context, the Institute for Governance, Policies & Politics, and Social Media Matters proposed this study to understand parental concerns and their online safety mechanisms for a safe and positive online environment for their children.