Global cybersecurity firm Kaspersky has offered guidance on how children can safely navigate the world of AI, in time for 'Safer Internet Day'. Kaspersky security experts shared practical advice on how to utilize AI as a reliable assistant rather than a potential threat. This announcement comes as 'Generation Alpha'—born between 2010 and 2025—lives in an environment actively integrated with technology, raising concerns among parents and security experts about providing such powerful tools at an early age.

Kaspersky analyzed its telemetry data and revealed that 44.99% of global email traffic in 2025 was spam. Generation Alpha, as digital natives, skillfully utilize smartphones, tablets, and AI tools to explore various digital environments such as games, social media, and online learning platforms. In this context, Kaspersky emphasized that children should be taught to cross-verify AI information and avoid sharing personal information or documents with AI systems.

The company stated that parents should become AI mentors for their children. It is important to explain that digital assistants are not human and can provide misleading or biased information. Especially regarding sensitive topics like health, mental well-being, and safety, children should be taught to verify information through multiple sources rather than trusting AI answers entirely. It added that sharing personal information or documents with AI systems should be strictly prohibited.

The company suggested checking safety features built into most AI platforms and smart devices, and adjusting privacy settings and content filters. This serves as a basic means to protect children from inappropriate content or privacy breaches. Since not all services provide content filter settings, Kaspersky suggested considering parental control tools like Kaspersky Safe Kids to block inappropriate content, prevent the execution of specific apps and websites, and manage screen time.

In an environment where new AI apps emerge rapidly, it is essential to verify the authenticity of the apps. Children should be educated to download apps only from official app stores and to avoid installing apps from unfamiliar sources. It is also necessary to check the developer's official website and verify legitimate business activities. Teach children to limit app permissions to the minimum and not to grant data access unless necessary for the app to function properly.

Kaspersky emphasized that continuous interest and communication regarding a child's AI usage are important. By asking questions like, "What did you ask the AI today? Did you get a proper answer?", parents can encourage children to talk openly about their AI experiences. It advised asking what they learned if they used ChatGPT for homework, or inquiring about the topics they frequently discuss if they use a voice assistant like Alexa.

Andrey Sidorenko, Head of the Cyber Literacy Project at Kaspersky, stated, "When parents actively participate in their child's AI journey, they transform from anxious parents into trusted guides," adding, "Children should be led to seek advice rather than feeling controlled by their parents' interest." He urged that even if a certain level of freedom in AI usage is allowed, vigilance regarding online safety and healthy growth must always be maintained.

Lee Hyo-eun, Head of Kaspersky Korea, said, "Protecting Generation Alpha in South Korea's fast-paced cyber environment is very important," and added, "We must guide children by emphasizing awareness, safety filters, and verifying app authenticity so they can use AI wisely." She added that through continuous interest and participation, children's digital journeys can be made both enriching and secure.