By Linewize Team
Keeping children safe online in today’s climate requires more than just a basic filter. Advanced solutions are essential to protect students from rapidly evolving threats without compromising their education or creativity.
The Increasing Need of Digital Safeguarding
The safety and wellbeing of young New Zealanders have become top priorities for schools as we navigate an increasingly digital landscape. Reports from The New Zealand Herald have highlighted a concerning rise in online threats, making it more crucial than ever for schools to reinforce their digital safeguarding strategies.
The Reality of Inadequate Filtering Systems
While many schools believe they have robust digital safety measures in place, the reality can be alarming. What you consider a ‘safe’ internet filtering platform may allow inappropriate websites or content to slip through. This was recently exposed by The New Zealand Herald, where harmful content was accessed on a primary school iPad despite an existing filtering system. A parent discovered explicit material, including pornography, self-harm content, and suicide videos, easily accessible on these devices. Even with government funding for internet safety measures, many educators remain unaware of the actual risks, as current filtering systems are often not sufficiently robust. This example highlights the false sense of security that inadequate filtering systems can create. These tools, while necessary, can be insufficient on their own to tackle the complex challenges of today’s online world.
Watch the full NZ Herald segment here.
What Action Can Schools Take?
You’re not alone if you’re concerned that your filtering system might be enough to keep your students safe online. The good news is that technology exists to close the gaps children might fall through, it's called Real-time Digital Risk Monitoring. Digital monitoring solutions complement existing blocking systems by spotting student risks and warning signs across all digital spaces. This makes a real difference in ensuring student safety.
Watch our short video on how digital monitoring works here.
Addressing Modern Challenges
Schools' unique challenges in today’s online environment call for proactive solutions. Here are some key areas to focus on:
Advanced Filtering
Modern filtering solutions should do more than block inappropriate websites. They must be dynamic, allowing access to valuable educational content while flagging high-risk searches in real-time. This proactive capability can alert school staff to potential concerns, enabling early intervention.
Watch our short video on advanced filtering here.
Human-Moderated Threat Detection
Automated systems alone cannot detect the nuances of every digital threat. Incorporating human moderation allows schools to monitor broader online activity, including platforms like email and shared documents. This layer of oversight ensures that concerning behaviour or communication is identified and addressed promptly.
Parental Controls
Digital safeguarding doesn't stop at the school gates, making it vital to engage parents in the digital safety conversation. Parental control tools are widely available and should include features that empower parents to manage screen time on personal devices, creating a cohesive approach to online safety beyond the school.
Watch our short video on how parental control tools can empower your school community here.
Take The Next Step Toward Better Digital Safeguarding
In an era where digital threats are evolving rapidly, prioritising the online safety of students is essential. By staying informed and adopting comprehensive digital safeguarding measures, schools can create a secure, supportive learning environment. If you would like to learn more about
Explore our comprehensive guide ‘Everything you need to know about Digital Safeguarding’ here. If you have any questions or would like to learn more about our digital safeguarding solutions, email us at enquiries@linewize.co.nz. Let's work together to safeguard students online.
