Every Screen Is a Doorway: Why Children Are at Risk Online
Behind every glowing screen in a child’s hand lies a world that can educate, entertain, and quietly endanger. Online predators, grooming networks, scams and harmful content are increasingly reaching children through everyday apps, games and social platforms. As Malaysia marks Safer Internet Day 2026, authorities and technology companies are sounding a clear alarm: digital safety tools exist, but children will remain vulnerable unless adults step up, stay alert and take responsibility.
The internet has become an inseparable part of childhood. Homework, friendships, games and entertainment now unfold largely online. But while children move easily through the digital world, they often do so without fully understanding its risks.
On Safer Internet Day 2026, parents were urged to actively use digital safety tools and engage more closely with their children’s online lives, as threats such as online grooming, sexual exploitation, cyberbullying and financial scams continue to rise.
Major technology companies, including Meta, TikTok and Google, have introduced stronger parental control features designed to help adults supervise children’s online activity. These tools allow parents to manage screen time, restrict inappropriate content, limit who can contact children and monitor activity across social media, video platforms and mobile devices.
However, experts stress that technology alone is not enough.
A Hidden Danger in Plain Sight
Online predators no longer rely on dark corners of the internet. They now approach children through popular games, messaging apps and social media platforms, often posing as peers. Conversations can begin innocently, compliments, shared interests or gaming tips, before escalating into manipulation, coercion or requests for personal images.
Authorities warn that many cases of online exploitation occur while children are at home, sometimes even while parents are nearby. This makes online safety not just a technological issue, but a parenting and community responsibility.
Devices Are Not Babysitters
Communications Minister Datuk Fahmi Fadzil reminded parents that digital devices should never replace supervision or guidance. Smartphones and tablets may keep children quiet, but without rules and oversight, they can expose them to serious harm.
He urged parents to:
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Set clear limits on screen time
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Activate parental controls on all devices
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Regularly review privacy and safety settings
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Stay involved in how children use the internet
Most importantly, parents were encouraged to talk openly and often with children about their online experiences.
Warning Signs Adults Should Not Ignore
Child protection experts highlight several red flags that may signal online danger:
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Sudden secrecy around devices or online activity
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Emotional changes such as anxiety, withdrawal or aggression
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New online “friends” adults do not know
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Reluctance to discuss what they do online
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Receiving gifts, credits or money linked to online interactions
These signs do not always mean abuse is occurring, but they warrant attention and conversation.
Education Is the Strongest Shield
Beyond restrictions, children need digital education that helps them recognise danger, understand consent, and feel safe reporting uncomfortable experiences. Simply banning apps or blocking websites may drive risky behaviour underground rather than prevent it.
Experts emphasise that children must be taught:
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Not to share personal information or images
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To question strangers who seek private conversations
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To recognise manipulation and pressure
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That they will not be blamed for speaking up
Protecting Children Is a Shared Duty
Safeguarding children online cannot fall on parents alone. Schools, community groups, technology companies and policymakers all play a role in creating safer digital environments. Awareness campaigns, teacher training and community workshops are increasingly being used to spread digital safety knowledge beyond the home.
As online threats evolve, so must society’s response.
A Clear Message to Adults
Children are growing up in a digital world they did not create and cannot fully control. Adults must be their first line of defence.
Using safety tools, staying engaged, listening without judgement and acting early can mean the difference between protection and harm.
Every screen is a doorway. It is up to adults to decide whether it leads to opportunity or danger.
