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These threats can come through texts, emails, social media, games, and filesharing platforms %u2013 tools kids use daily. That%u2019s why it%u2019s so important to teach them how to recognize red flags and stay safe.What Parents Can DoThe good news is you don%u2019t have to be a tech expert to help your kids stay safe online, and you don%u2019t have to do it all by yourself. With the right conversations and cybersecurity tools, parents can create a safer digital environment at home. What matters most is having open conversations about digital safety and starting those talks early.Here are a few basic safety tips every family should cover:%u2022 Use strong, unique passwords for each account and teach kids not to share them with friends.%u2022 Don%u2019t talk to strangers online and remind kids that people aren%u2019t always who they say they are.%u2022 Turn on privacy settings and parental controls to limit exposure to risky and inappropriate content and protect personal data.%u2022 Encourage healthy screen time habits, including tech-free times during the day.It%u2019s also important to stay informed. Online threats are always changing, so keeping up with the latest trends and apps your kids are using can go a long way.Tools That Can HelpTechnology can be part of the solution when it comes to keeping kids safe online. From parental control apps to built-in privacy settings, there are more resources than ever to help families stay protected.One option available to Alaska families is MTA Shield %u2013 a cybersecurity tool that helps block harmful content, phishing attempts, and malware before they ever reach your child%u2019s screen. It%u2019s not a replacement for conversations or guidance, but it%u2019s a strong layer of defense that works in the background while your kids browse, stream, and chat.Think of it as one more way to stay a step ahead in a fast-changing digital world.When parents, schools, and community partners like MTA work together, we can equip kids with the tools they need to navigate the online world confidently. It starts with education, open dialogue, and steady support %u2013 building lifelong habits that help kids stay safe, aware, and in control.Jess Gilbert is the Director of Marketing and Communications at MTA Solutions based in Palmer, a locally owned cooperative provider of telecommunications services.AlaskaParent.com fall 2025 alaska parent 11