Komdigi warns teachers of seven digital risks threatening children

Denpasar (ANTARA) - The Minister of Communication and Digital of the Republic of Indonesia, Meutya Hafid, has warned teachers regarding seven major risks lurking for children in the digital space.

Meutya delivered this message to more than 900 teachers attending the Sahabat Tunas Forum in Denpasar, Bali, on Thursday.

“Digital addiction is one of the greatest risks because it can disrupt learning focus and affect children’s behaviour,” she stated.

She explained that communication features with strangers on various digital platforms also have the potential to trigger crimes against children, such as bullying, fraud, and radicalisation.

Furthermore, children are also vulnerable to exposure to age-inappropriate content, including violence and pornography, which can affect character development and values of politeness.

Meutya added that digital platforms also utilise children’s data for commercial interests. Data regarding children’s interests and habits can be used to target advertisements and encourage consumptive behaviour.

Therefore, the government is calling on teachers to participate in educating students about the dangers of the digital world and the importance of protecting personal data.

“We hope that teachers will help children recognise these risks and build healthy digital habits,” said Meutya.