While today’s young people are digital natives, their familiarity with technology doesn’t always shield them from online threats. In the Philippines, users are 33 times more likely to encounter risks on unsafe platforms like pirate websites, highlighting the need for stronger safeguards. For children, the dangers are even greater. Their natural curiosity and frequent online activity make them prime targets for malicious content, online predators, and unauthorized data collection.
One alarming trend is the rise of AI-driven attacks, including highly convincing deepfakes enabled by generative AI. Last year, deepfakes impersonating prominent public figures in the Philippines made headlines and impacted reputations. This risk will only continue – in fact, Palo Alto Networks predicts that 2025 is the year deepfakes go mainstream in Asia Pacific. If high-profile individuals can fall victim to identity fraud, children and young people—who are increasingly active on social media and frequently share content—face even greater risks.
These growing concerns have led to efforts in the region to implement stronger digital protections. For example in Singapore, discussions are ongoing about age-based restrictions on social media access, with the country engaging with Australia to understand its approach following Australia’s proposal to ban children under 16 from these platforms..
Recognizing the urgent need to protect young users from online threats, Palo Alto Networks emphasizes the importance of fostering safer digital practices this Safer Internet Day. By promoting good online habits and building awareness, everyone can play a role in protecting young users from digital threats. Here are some practical tips to help families and schools create a secure online experience:
For Parents and Guardians:
- Secure devices: Keep all devices updated with the latest software and strong, unique passwords to safeguard against cyber threats.
- Teach safe internet habits by example: Demonstrate responsible online behavior to encourage children to adopt similar practices.
- Create a safe digital space: Place computers in common areas and set up restricted accounts to ensure children’s online safety.
For Schools and Educators:
- Teach cyber hygiene: Educate students, staff, and parents on recognizing phishing links and verifying email senders.
- Encourage open discussions: Create safe spaces for students to address cyber mistakes, such as clicking on phishing links, without fear of judgment.
- Promote secure communication: Promote the use of “safe words” to verify the authenticity of calls or messages and prevent impersonation scams.
While parents and educators play a crucial role in online safety, young users themselves must practice good online habits to protect themselves from digital threats. Here are some ways for them to stay safe online:
For Young Online Users:
- Update devices regularly: Security updates protect devices from hackers.
- Use strong passwords or passphrases: Combine four or more random words to create passwords that are hard to guess but easy to remember.
- Enable multi-factor authentication (MFA): Add an extra layer of security by requiring more than just a password to log in.
- Be cautious online: Avoid clicking on links or opening files from unknown sources.
- Report suspicious activity: Inform a trusted adult or report to a cyber safety site if something seems unusual.
Nearly 70% of children and adolescents worldwide faced cyber risks, reinforcing the urgent need for stronger safeguards. These dangers take many forms, including exposure to inappropriate content, online exploitation, cyberbullying, and the impact of excessive screen time—growing more complex as young users become more active online.
“Children today face growing cyber risks with bad actors taking advantage of their digital habits, trust in online platforms, and lack of awareness,” said Oscar Visaya, Country Manager of Palo Alto Networks in the Philippines. “Cybersecurity is no longer an afterthought in child protection—it must be a fundamental pillar. At Palo Alto Networks, we are committed to equipping parents, educators, and young users with the knowledge and tools to recognize, prevent, and respond to these threats, ensuring they can explore, learn, and connect in a safer digital environment.”
Safer Internet Day is a powerful reminder of the growing risks young people face online. Palo Alto Networks supports this mission through its Cyber Safe Kids initiative, which provides families and schools with interactive tools, educational resources, and expert guidance. These resources help create safer digital spaces where young users can explore and learn with confidence.
As the digital world continues to evolve, protecting young users online remains a critical priority. By combining awareness, education, and proactive measures, we can equip young people with the skills and confidence to navigate the digital environment safely and responsibly.
