From data flow security to avoiding unwanted subscriptions: A smartphone guide for parents and their technology-loving offspring. The LKA Lower Saxony prevention team points out that such responsibility is usually not recommended before the age of eleven. However, the team has put together helpful tips for the safe use of this device.

Introduction

Childhood is a time of learning and discovery. In today's digitalized world, the first smartphone is often a crucial milestone in a child's life. This guide is intended to prepare parents and their children for the journey into the digital world and to make them aware of the potential risks and challenges that can come with using a smartphone.

Find out about the device and apps

Parents who provide their children with a smartphone should first find out about the manufacturer and the pre-installed apps. This primarily concerns questions of data flow and data processing.

For example, some apps can pass contact data from the address book, while others determine the user's location and read data. Parents should therefore check the permissions of the apps and adjust them if necessary. In many cases, the sharing of data can be deactivated in the settings of the respective app.

Restrict the rights of young smartphone users

The rights of young smartphone users should be restricted in such a way that independent installations are not carried out and unwanted subscriptions (ringtones, erotic services, games, etc.) are prevented from the outset by blocking them. Such deals can result in high costs, as can in-app purchases.

Most smartphones have a “Parental Controls” or “Screen Time” feature that allows parents to monitor and control their children’s usage behavior. Here you can, for example:

  • Set time limits for specific apps
  • Block access to certain apps
  • Only allow new apps to be installed with a password
  • Block in-app purchases

Familiarize yourself with the device together with your child

The first smartphone should be used together with the child. Use this opportunity to make your child aware of potential dangers. It is important that children understand that losing their device not only means losing their phone, but also the data stored on it. Therefore, the cell phone should be stored safely when not in use.

It is also important to teach your child about privacy. If the smartphone is used in public, strangers may be able to look at the display and read along. Privacy films on the displays could be a helpful measure here.

Agree on rules for smartphone use

Guardians and smartphone beginners should also agree on how the cell phone may be used in the future. Many popular apps are subject to age ratings. The LKA advises legal guardians to find out more about this. Some apps only allow use with parental consent. If you as a parent allow these apps, clear rules for their use should be agreed upon.

For example, you should discuss the following points:

  • When and where can the cell phone be used?
  • Which apps can be installed and used?
  • How long can the cell phone be used daily?

The Police Crime Prevention Department has developed a media contract that parents and children can conclude with each other. This contract can be individually adapted - for example to take the child's age into account - and is available free of charge at www.mediennutzsvertrag.de .

In conclusion, safely using a child's first smartphone can be a challenge. But with open communication, clear rules, and vigilance, you can help ensure your child has a positive and safe experience with their new device. This means that jumping into the deep end is not a frosty experience, but rather a refreshing start into the digital world.

Source: Lower Saxony State Criminal Police Office

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