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health & wellness Health news for the whole familyIn today%u2019s connected world, kids in Alaska are growing up surrounded by technology. Phones, tablets, and the internet have become part of daily life, often introduced to kids before they%u2019re old enough to understand the risks that come with them. Whether chatting with friends on Snapchat, watching videos on YouTube, or playing games online, young Alaskans are spending more time on the internet than ever before. That%u2019s why understanding digital safety has become a key part of raising healthy, informed kids. But for many parents, knowing where to begin can be overwhelming.During a recent internet safety session led by MTA at Sherrod Elementary in Palmer, students shared eyeopening questions that revealed just how engaged they are with their digital lives and how much guidance they still need. Questions like:%u2022 %u201cHow do I report something, like online?%u201d%u2022 %u201cCan a hacker guess my phone password?%u201d%u2022 %u201cShould I always ask my mom before I add someone back on Snapchat?%u201d%u2022 %u201cHow do I know if I have spyware or a virus on my computer?%u201dThese aren%u2019t just tech questions %u2013 they%u2019re real concerns coming from kids who are navigating the digital world, which is full of hidden and evolving dangers.Understanding the RisksOnline threats aren%u2019t always easy to spot. They can show up in the form of friendly messages, funny links, or on popular apps, but behind that harmless exterior can be real dangers, including:%u2022 Phishing and Scams: Fake messages that trick kids into giving away personal information or clicking on malicious links.%u2022 Malware and Spyware: Harmful software that can infect devices, steal data, and compromise privacy, often installed unknowingly through downloads or ads.%u2022 Cyberbullying and Privacy Violations: Harassment on social media, group chats, or gaming platforms can seriously affect mental health. Sharing too much online can also put kids at risk.%u2022 Obscenity and Digital Piracy: Exposure to inappropriate content and illegal file-sharing are more accessible than many parents realize.%u2022 AI-Generated Content: AI is making it easier to create realistic fake images, videos, and messages that can be used in scams, bullying, or spreading misinformation, making it harder for kids to tell what%u2019s real online.By Jess Gilbert10 alaska parent fall 2025 AlaskaParent.com