The Handbook on Safe and Effective Use of the Internet for children published by Kim Dong Publishing House.

The handbook, which targets children from 6 to 11 years old, summarizes 15 tips and necessary knowledge to identify possible risks and better protect themselves in the cyber world. 

Nguyen Hoang Anh, CFC Director and one of the co-authors, said that they aim to have an Internet-safety guide book for children that matches the situation in Vietnam with authentic Vietnamese content and images. 

“The book includes solutions and interactive tests for children to handle possible risks such as online bullying, fraudulence, and other negative situations on social networks and the Internet. It also gives them advice on what information they should not make public and how to make friends online,” said Hoang Anh.

“We also introduce some safe sources for children provided by prestige organizations such as UNESCO and UNICEF so the children can protect themselves while creatively and safely work on the Internet.”

A discussion on online safety for children during the launch ceremony for the book, October 28, 2023. (Photo: Cam Thi)

Dinh Thi Nhu Hoa, Head of the Inspection Department of the Vietnam Cyber Emergency Response Center, said that the Internet is a double-edged sword. Besides the benefits of providing knowledge, entertainment, and worldwide connection, technology also poses risks and dangers to children, who don’t have sufficient awareness and skills to protect themselves online.

“Social networks such as Tiktok and YouTube have warnings on the age of users and inappropriate contents for people under 13 or 16 years old. Parents should not ignore these first protection ring rules when allowing their children to access websites and social networks,” Hoa suggested.

The book is part of a series of Kim Dong Publishing House’s handbooks to guide children in various situations such as preventing child abuse, accidents and injuries, bullying and school violence, apartment safety, and drowning.