Experts: Digital Literacy and Parental Responsibility Can Mitigate Social Media Harms for Children

A discussion organized by MediaNama in New Delhi on July 31 concluded that improving children's digital safety is not primarily the responsibility of governments or tech platforms, but a societal and parental duty.

During the event, it was emphasized that low digital literacy in India can hinder children's understanding of consent mechanisms regarding their data. With approximately 30% of women having less than ten years of schooling, this can affect how parents comprehend the collection and use of their children's online data. While tools like Meta's Family Centre exist, their effective implementation in India necessitates significant investment in digital literacy.

Singapore's model, where technology companies fund digital media literacy education for children and parents, was cited as successful. This model defined online harms like cyberbullying and privacy, and established a related curriculum. The program has demonstrated a measurable reduction in such harms.

School-based programs alone are insufficient; literacy must be continuous and comprehensive. Experts noted that open communication between parents and children is fundamental. Strict bans and restrictions can be counterproductive and should be complemented by mutual understanding of the digital world.

The event, organized with several community partners, aimed to foster dialogue on online harms affecting children and their prevention.