Fact Check: Authorities urge families to use parental controls on any devices kids use

Fact Check: "Authorities urge families to use parental controls on any devices kids use"

What We Know

Authorities and experts consistently recommend the use of parental controls to enhance children's online safety. Parental controls are software tools that allow parents to monitor and restrict their children's online activities, helping to prevent exposure to harmful content and manage screen time. According to the National Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Children, parental controls can help manage how much time children spend online, restrict the type of content they can access, and limit who they can communicate with.

Moreover, the Australian eSafety Commissioner emphasizes that parental controls should be set up on all devices children access and should be regularly reviewed and updated. This comprehensive approach is echoed by a study indicating that 86% of parents with children under 11 have utilized at least one parental control setting, highlighting a significant awareness and usage of these tools among parents (Internet Matters).

Analysis

The claim that authorities urge families to use parental controls is well-supported by various credible sources. The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends that parental controls be part of a broader family online safety plan, which includes open communication about internet use. This aligns with the findings from the Australian eSafety Commissioner, which notes that parental controls are most effective when combined with supervision and other protective strategies.

While parental controls are beneficial, they are not foolproof. They should be complemented by discussions about online safety and responsible internet use. The Consumer Protection agency also advises parents to actively monitor their children's internet usage, suggesting that parental controls are just one component of a comprehensive safety strategy.

The reliability of these sources is high, as they come from established organizations focused on child welfare and online safety. Their recommendations are based on research and expert consensus, making them credible authorities in this field.

Conclusion

Verdict: True. The claim that authorities urge families to use parental controls on any devices kids use is substantiated by multiple reputable sources. These sources advocate for the implementation of parental controls as a critical measure to protect children online, emphasizing the need for ongoing communication and supervision alongside the use of these tools.

Fact Check: Authorities urge families to use parental controls on any devices kids use