With over 95% of children in South Africa accessing the internet, it's crucial for parents to teach them about online safety. Discover essential guidelines to help your children recognise and avoid online scams, ensuring their digital experience is safe and secure.
Image: File photo.
Over 95% of children in South Africa regularly access the internet but less than half are taught about online safety. We teach our children how to tie their shoes, cross the road, and ride a bicycle – all things we were taught as children. Today’s toddlers and teens, however, have access to an entirely new digital realm through their smart devices. While the younger generations are naturally more digitally savvy, they’re still minors who need to be taught to recognize online threats. A single mistaken click can expose them to serious cyber risks.
“The holidays bring the challenge of managing kids’ screen time without school and activities to keep them busy,” says Leon Jacobs, Chief Information Officer at RCS. “Beyond general safety, parents must also teach their children to spot and avoid online scams and fraud.”
The rise of online scams
South African children are among the millions worldwide who access the internet daily, making them prime targets for online scams. Research shows that 25% of children have added people they’ve never met to their friends list, and 18% have sent photos or videos to strangers. Additionally, cybercriminals often prey on young users who lack the experience to distinguish between legitimate connections and fraudulent schemes. Common online scams targeting children and teens include:
Fake competitions
Fraudsters lure kids into providing personal details by advertising fake giveaways, contests, or prize draws.
Modelling agency scams
Scammers posing as talent scouts request revealing images under the guise of securing modelling contracts.
Credit provider impersonation
Criminals impersonate legitimate financial providers, such as RCS, on Telegram and other platforms, trying to trick unsuspecting individuals into filling out loan application forms, which typically include sensitive information that can be used for illegal purposes by scammers.
Requests for deposits
Legitimate credit providers, like RCS, will never ask customers to pay an upfront deposit, administration fee, or any other payment to secure a loan, credit approval, or competition entry.
Fraudsters pose as financial institutions online, luring victims with promises of easy loan approvals and then demanding a deposit before releasing the funds—only to disappear once the payment is made.
Seven guidelines for cyber-savvy kids
“As digital natives, children are comfortable transacting online, but that doesn’t mean they’re immune to fraud,” says Jacobs. “Parents must ensure their children understand the risks and can identify potential threats.” He outlines seven simple rules to build digital resilience:
1. Use trusted websites
Only shop on sites that are secure. Look for the padlock icon and "https://" in the URL.
2. Keep personal information private
Never share full names, home addresses, or banking details unless on a verified site.
3. Be wary of ‘too-good-to-be-true’ deals
If an offer seems unrealistic, it probably is. Always verify with a parent before clicking on promotions or discounts.
4. Watch out for phishing scams
Cybercriminals use fake emails and ads to trick users into providing sensitive information. If an email requests personal details or payment, consult an adult first. Also, be cautious of ‘click here’ or ‘follow the link’ instructions.
5. Use strong passwords
A password should be complex and not easily guessable. Also, never share passwords with friends.
6. Don't send photos to people you don't know, ever.
As a critical reminder, never send photos to people you don't know, as sharing personal images with strangers can expose you to identity theft and further exploitation. Always verify the legitimacy of online contacts and remain vigilant against any requests that seem unusual or intrusive.
7. Ask for help when unsure
If something online feels wrong or confusing, don’t hesitate to ask a parent or teacher for advice.
Stay vigilant and report suspicious activity
Fraudsters are constantly developing new ways to exploit unsuspecting individuals, including children. Online shopping is convenient, but it requires vigilance. Parents should guide their children in safe payment practices. RCS cardholders can enjoy peace of mind when they transact securely on approved payment gateways. To learn more about cyber fraud protection, visit https://rcs.co.za/media/.
If you or your child suspect fraudulent activity, report it immediately to the appropriate authorities and always verify financial dealings through official channels. “Parents can empower their children to operate safely in the digital world and to avoid falling victim to online scams through cyber awareness. With education and vigilance, we can create a safer online environment for the next generation,” concludes Jacobs.
If you believe you or your child have been scammed, here's who you can contact. For general crime and fraud, call the SAPS Crime Stop at 0860 010 111 or 10111, or report it to your bank or payment provider immediately.
General Crime and Fraud:
· SAPS Crime Stop: 0860 010 111 (for reporting crimes and criminal activities)
· Childline: 116
· Childline South Africa: 0800 055 555
· SAPS Emergency: 10111
· Fraud and Anti-Corruption Hotline: 0800 00 2870.
· NPA Service Delivery Hotline: 0800 212 580 (for reporting theft, fraud, or corruption)
· SAFPS (South African Fraud Prevention Service): 011 867 2234
· SAFPS Email: safps@safps.org.za
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