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The increasing prevalence of internet usage among young people presents a pressing need to protect them from exposure to harmful content, necessitating stronger regulations and heightened parental awareness to ensure their safety online. A recent report from a prominent advocacy organisation in New Zealand, urging more comprehensive and stringent regulations on online content, underscores the pressing need to bolster safeguards ensuring the safety of children’s digital interactions.
With the advent of the internet, young individuals have gained access to an unprecedented array of content, ranging from educational and informative to entertaining; however, this digital landscape has also exposed them to graphic imagery, adult material, and objectionable content, posing challenges in safeguarding them from such risks, including exposure to illegal sexual content, a concern faced not only by New Zealand but also by numerous countries worldwide.
The voluntary system administered by the Department of Internal Affairs in New Zealand currently blocks more than 400 websites depicting child sex abuse. Social Worker Rachel Taane has observed the psychological harm caused by exposure to illegal sexual content, noting that it can normalise harmful behaviours and create significant distress. She emphasises that children often feel embarrassed or afraid to seek help, fearing punishment or having their devices taken away.
Despite efforts by most internet providers to participate in a voluntary digital child exploitation filtering system, there is still much to be done. Internal Affairs Minister Brooke van Velden acknowledges the system’s successes in blocking harmful material but recognises the need for improvement. She emphasises the importance of balancing censorship and protecting children from harmful content while respecting freedom of expression.
The Makes Sense campaign has been actively advocating for better protection for children online, with an online petition signed by 10,000 individuals calling for stronger filters on illegal sexual behaviour. Organisers like Holly Brooker highlight the need for New Zealand to catch up with international standards, citing the UK foundation as an example of effective web-crawling and hashing technology to block child sexual abuse material.
The petition co-founder, Jo Robertson, echoed the concerns raised by the Department of Internal Affairs (DIA) about the alarming increase in this type of content, emphasising the need for immediate action to address the issue. Despite the challenges, there is a collective call for greater protection for children online and a recognition that more can be done to prevent accidental exposure to harmful content. Children are frequently targeted by cyber risks, making them vulnerable.
OpenGov Asia has reported that New Zealand has prevented harm to vulnerable communities. At the start of the 2024 academic year, law enforcement agencies urged parents and caregivers to be cautious when sharing back-to-school photos of their children online. While it is common to celebrate such milestones, authorities stress the importance of taking privacy precautions to shield children from potential risks in the digital realm.
Parents often share images of their children in school uniforms or at educational institutions, unknowingly disclosing identifying details that could be exploited. While such incidents are relatively rare, instances of inappropriate image use, including their inclusion in child exploitation material, underscore the importance of heightened awareness.
In response to these potential dangers, authorities advise parents and caregivers to take proactive measures to ensure their children’s online safety and protect their personal information. Police are recommending some essential tips to enhance online safety.
Similarly, as the government endeavours to enhance filters and upgrade the current system, it is paramount for parents to maintain vigilance over their children’s online activities. Utilising accessible parental control filters can help restrict access to inappropriate content and mitigate potential risks.
Safeguarding children from online harm requires a collaborative effort from all stakeholders, including governments, internet service providers, and families. Together, they can work towards creating a safer online environment for everyone.
