The Rising Tide of AI and the Future of Online Safety for Children
Today, February 10th, 2026, marks Safer Internet Day, a global event focused on navigating the evolving digital landscape. This year’s theme, “AI Aware: Safe, Smart and in Control,” underscores a critical shift in online safety – the increasing influence of artificial intelligence on young people’s lives. The conversation isn’t just about existing online threats, but about the new risks and opportunities presented by generative AI.
Understanding the AI Landscape for Young Users
Generative AI is now woven into the fabric of children’s online experiences, from social media feeds to search engine results. While offering benefits, this integration introduces complex risks that challenge traditional online safety measures. Recent research from University College Dublin (UCD) reveals a concerning paradox: young people don’t fully trust AI, yet they readily accept the compromises to their privacy that come with using it. They are aware of its potential for misuse, but increasingly reliant on its convenience.
This reliance is happening even as children face a lack of parental oversight. CyberSafeKids research shows over 90% of eight- to twelve-year-olds are active online, with many experiencing little meaningful parental guidance. This lack of supervision leaves them vulnerable to platforms not designed for their age and the potential for oversharing personal information.
The Dark Side of AI: Emerging Harms
The potential for harm is significant. Experts are particularly concerned about “nudification” tools and AI-powered “girlfriend” apps, which can alter and misuse children’s content, putting them at serious risk. One incident reported involved the creation and sharing of AI-generated explicit images of students within a school, leading to a police investigation and the removal of the perpetrator.
The risks extend beyond direct harm. The spread of misinformation and deepfakes, facilitated by AI, is eroding public trust in traditional media and adding pressure to democratic processes. The Oireachtas Committee on Artificial Intelligence is addressing these concerns, examining the role of social media companies and the need for responsible media practices in the age of AI.
Empowering the Next Generation: Skills for an AI-Driven World
Minister for Education and Youth Hildegarde Naughton emphasizes the urgent need to equip children and young people with the critical thinking and digital literacy skills necessary to navigate this new reality. This includes evaluating AI-generated content, protecting their privacy and making responsible decisions online.
The Irish Safer Internet Centre, a partnership between Webwise, ISPCC, National Parents Council, and Irish Internet Hotline, is leading the charge. They are providing free resources and activity ideas for schools and parents, including lessons for primary and post-primary students and a “Parent’s Guide to Generative AI.”
What Can Parents and Educators Do?
Proactive engagement is key. Parents need to familiarize themselves with parental controls and the apps and games their children are using. Open communication about online safety is crucial, fostering an environment where children perceive comfortable discussing their experiences and concerns.
Educators play a vital role in integrating digital literacy into the curriculum, teaching students how to critically assess information, identify misinformation, and understand the ethical implications of AI.
Frequently Asked Questions
- What is generative AI? Generative AI is a type of artificial intelligence that can create new content, such as text, images, and videos.
- Why is AI a concern for children? AI can be used to create harmful content, spread misinformation, and exploit vulnerabilities.
- What resources are available to help parents? The Irish Safer Internet Centre offers a “Parent’s Guide to Generative AI” and other resources on their Webwise hub.
- What skills do children need to navigate AI safely? Critical thinking, digital literacy, and an understanding of privacy are essential skills.
Did you grasp? Research indicates many parents feel unprepared to manage their children’s online activities, highlighting the need for increased support and education.
To learn more about online safety and how to protect your children, visit the Webwise Safer Internet Day Hub.
Related reading