Navigate the web safely: 5 honey traps to be aware of

The Internet has become an integral part of our lives. We use it for many activities like shopping, socialising, banking, and education. However, with the vast amount of personal and sensitive information we share online, there is an increased risk of identity theft, fraud, cyberbullying, and other online threats. Therefore, it is essential to take precautions to stay safe on the internet.

Cyber security is an increasingly important issue for students in today’s digital age. As more and more aspects of our lives are conducted online, the risk of cyber-attacks and data breaches becomes greater. More so, since students are using the Internet for a lot of things – doing school projects, using social media to keep in touch with friends, and even playing games online.

“Honey traps are online tactics used by cybercriminals to gain the trust of children and lure them into potentially harmful situations. For example, Cybercriminals may offer rewards such as free games, coupons, or gift cards to lure children into sharing personal information or photos”

–Rajni Virmani, PRT at Apeejay Svran Global School sector 21-D, Faridabad

As a student, being safe online is very important, says Rajni Virmani, who has been a PRT teacher at Apeejay Svran Global School 21-D in Faridabad.

Virmani, who teaches Math and Computers, said some safeguards must be in place while kids are browsing the Internet. “When children are browsing the Internet, it is essential to have appropriate safeguards in place to ensure their online safety.

Key safeguards that can be implemented are:

1. Parental controls: Install parental control software or settings on your devices to restrict access to inappropriate content and websites.
2. Safe search settings: Turn on safe search settings in your browser to filter out explicit content from search results.
3. Strong passwords: Encourage the use of strong, unique passwords for online accounts to prevent unauthorized access. Teach children about the importance of password security and the risks of sharing passwords with others.
4. Monitor online activity: Keep an eye on children’s online activity and regularly check their browsing history.
5. Regularly check the browsing history and online interactions to ensure they are engaging in safe and responsible behaviour.
6. Filtering: Enable content filtering tools that block or filter out inappropriate or age-inappropriate content.
7. Internet time limits: Set limits on the amount of time children spend online to prevent overexposure and encourage other activities.
8. Cybersecurity measures: Install reputable antivirus and security software on devices used by children to protect against malware, phishing attempts, and other online threats. Keep the software up to date and regularly scan for potential threats.

“It is important to create a safe and supportive environment for children to explore the internet while being aware of potential risks and taking necessary precautions,” Virmani explained and said that there are several things that parents can do to prevent their children from honey traps.

Precautions that parents can take.

“Honey traps are online tactics used by cybercriminals to gain the trust of children and lure them into potentially harmful situations,” Virmani said and shared some examples of honey traps that students must be wary of.

1. Cybercriminals often create fake profiles and send friend requests to children to gain their trust.
2. They may use chat rooms to initiate conversations with children and gain their trust.
3. Cybercriminals may offer rewards such as free games, coupons, or gift cards to lure children into sharing personal information or photos.
4. Cybercriminals may ask children for personal information like their address, phone number, or school, under the guise of wanting to be friends.
5. Some may use threats or intimidation to manipulate children into sharing personal information or engaging in inappropriate behaviour.

What can parents do?

Virmani stressed the need to educate the children. “Teach children about the dangers of sharing personal information online and the risks associated with interacting with strangers. Parents need to monitor online activity. Regularly check their browsing history and social media profiles. On can install parental control software or settings on your devices to restrict access to inappropriate content and websites,” Virmani recommended.

She also said that parents need to maintain open communication with their children about their online experiences and encourage them to talk to you about any concerns or issues they encounter online.

“Teach your children to report any suspicious behaviour to a trusted adult and to avoid engaging with strangers online. Parents can report such behaviour or suspicious activity to the National Cybercrime portal which is https://cybercrime.gov.in/ or can dial 1930 to report these activities. By taking these precautions, parents can help protect their children from falling prey to honey traps and other online dangers,” Virmani said in conclusion.