Ooredoo Helps Parents Keep Kids Safe Online

Mobilk - As children these days spend more and more time connected to a digital world, Ooredoo is reaching out to parents across Oman to help them make sure their youngsters have a positive experience as they access the incredible educational and entertainment benefits of being online.

Commenting on the importance of parents getting involved as younger members of the family use social media, chat with their friends, and enjoy online games and videos, Raed Dawood, Director of Government Relations and Corporate Affairs, said: “Apps, social media and other digital sources are both educational and fun but they do have risks. While Ooredoo invests in the latest security and protection technology to combat threats, parents also have to play their part in keeping their children safe.”

Dawood added: “There are a number of simple things families can do to help keep their children out of trouble when they’re using mobile devices or computers. Firstly, mums and dads must make sure their child does not give out personal information, such as phone numbers, email addresses and passwords to anyone when they are messaging through Whatsapp or social media. Secondly, we advise parents to make it clear that children should only chat with real world friends and family, and should not accept friend requests from people they don’t actually know. There are very real dangers of unknown friends, such as stalking or received inappropriate content. And youngsters should never to go and meet anyone they have only been in touch with online. This can be extremely dangerous.”

“It is also important to watch out for signs of cyber bullying. Look for changes in behaviour, not wanting to be with friends or go out and above all, let them know they can come and talk to you, if they ever feel worried or uncomfortable about someone or something they have come across online.”

Dawood went on to suggest parents set internet filters to limit sites children can visit, and to ask for help from friends, colleagues or teachers if they do not know how to do this. He reminded parents of the dangers of messaging groups and advises them to beware of their child connecting with strangers during gaming or interactive group apps. As a final recommendation, Dawood urged parents to agree a code of online conduct with their children and to monitor their device use. 

Ooredoo’s dedication to its customers is not only about the value-packed services, offers and promotions it provides and the excellence of its customer care, but also extends to its relentless work to safeguard all members of the Ooredoo family.