Band 8+: With the development of social media, more and more youngsters are being allowed unsupervised access to the internet in order to meet and chat with friends which can lead to potentially dangerous situations. What solutions can you suggest to deal with this problem?

In recent years, there has been a rapid advancement in the internet sector, accompanied by a substantial increase in applications designed to facilitate connections across social networks. However, this expansion presents a plethora of risks to young individuals, as they often navigate this unfamiliar digital landscape without adequate supervision. A potential solution to this issue is the implementation of stringent regulations for these applications or increased parental oversight of their children’s online activities.

The dangers associated with unrestricted internet access are manifold, encompassing threats such as abduction and homicide. Such risks arise from the inherent difficulty in monitoring every facet of online interactions. For instance, in 2012, a tragic incident occurred involving two teenagers who were murdered by an individual they had met online. This horrendous act primarily stemmed from the victims’ naivety, attributable to their young age and inexperience. The perpetrator, a 40-year-old man, exploited their gullibility, highlighting the acute dangers posed by unregulated online engagement.

One viable solution to mitigate these threats involves the establishment of laws by governments that prohibit individuals convicted of serious crimes, such as homicide or kidnapping, from accessing applications intended for dating, socializing, or forming connections. An illustrative example of this approach is evidenced by the legislation enacted by the Norwegian government in 2018, which has shown promising results in enhancing online safety for users. Additionally, another proposed solution is for parents to closely monitor their children’s social media usage until they reach a more mature age, as the cognitive development of adolescents is still in progress and they may display a tendency towards credulity.

In conclusion, the dangers prevalent on the internet largely stem from the insufficient oversight of activities occurring within digital spaces. Addressing this issue requires a dual approach: the enforcement of regulations aimed at preventing criminals from utilizing social networks, alongside vigilant parental supervision of children’s online interactions. By implementing these measures, we can foster a safer online environment for the younger generation.