As children spend more time online from a young age, parents face a rising threat: AI-powered scams that adapt and become increasingly convincing. Recent surveys reveal a concerning gap between parental awareness and action, leaving kids vulnerable to sophisticated digital deception.

Artificial intelligence has revolutionized online scams, enabling fraudsters to craft personalized, realistic messages—such as voice clones or fake chats—that are difficult to detect. Experts warn that children, especially those under six, often lack the critical skills to recognize these threats. A study indicates that 42% of parents with preschoolers admit their kids have shared personal details online unintentionally.

Despite nearly 80% of parents acknowledging the dangers, many do not engage in ongoing, meaningful safety conversations. Instead, they rely solely on device controls, which are insufficient without active guidance. AI scams thrive on weak passwords and unawareness, making strong cybersecurity habits essential. Using password managers, enabling two-factor authentication, and staying informed about data breaches are crucial steps.

According to cybersecurity specialists, regular communication about online risks fosters resilience. Experts recommend setting devices in shared family spaces, reviewing app permissions together, and modeling safe online behavior. Early education on digital safety can significantly reduce children’s chances of falling victim to AI-enhanced scams, helping them develop confidence and caution in the digital world.

David Nield

Dave is a freelance tech journalist with over 20 years covering gadgets, apps, and the web. From Stockport, England, he covers news, features, and reviews for TechRadar, focusing on phones, tablets, and wearables. He ensures top weekend breaking news and has bylines at Gizmodo, T3, PopSci, and others. He edited PC Explorer and The Hardware Handbook for years. Read me on x.com or linkedin.