FLORIDA – From addictive algorithms to hackers recruiting teenagers for cybercrime, experts say the digital risks facing children are growing more complex and harder for parents to spot.
While new laws in Florida aim to limit children’s exposure to traditional social media platforms, technology experts warn that some of the most serious dangers are emerging in less-monitored corners of the internet, sometimes hiding in plain sight.
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Social media platforms and online communities are becoming increasingly sophisticated, driven in part by artificial intelligence and advanced data tracking. That sophistication, experts say, can be used to manipulate young users and keep them engaged for long periods of time.
“They’re getting better and smarter at knowing who they’re dealing with,” said Ann Liebschutz, an intellectual property attorney who specializes in technology research and development. “They know the exact profile and persona of the person scrolling and can target information that has the potential to keep them hooked for hours.”
Florida’s new social media law prohibits children under 14 from having social media accounts and requires parental consent for 15-year-olds. However, Liebschutz said the legislation does not address risks posed by nontraditional platforms.
“You have to monitor not just the social media they’re on,” she said. “There are many other online communities, forums, communication channels and games where young children can still connect with adults.”
One growing concern involves hackers and criminal organizations recruiting tech-savvy teenagers to knowingly or unknowingly assist in cybercrimes.
“Parents now have to worry that international criminal organizations know their middle school and high school children are often more tech-savvy than their parents,” Liebschutz said. “Those kids can be recruited and co-opted into very serious federal and international crimes.”
Liebschutz recommends several steps for parents to reduce risk:
- Talk openly with children about the real-world consequences of online activity
- Monitor gaming platforms, chat apps and online communities — not just social media
- Use parental control tools, but don’t rely on them alone
- Ask for help from schools, community members or trusted friends if technology feels overwhelming
“Sometimes you have to take different tactics and different approaches based on who your child is,” she said.
Experts also advise parents to talk with children about artificial intelligence and explain that what they see online may not be real. AI-generated deepfakes and fake personas are increasingly being used to target and groom children online.
As technology evolves, experts say ongoing communication and awareness remain some of the most effective tools parents have to keep children safe.