Online Safety Newsletter AI Chatbots and companions A simple search of “AI Chat” within the App store highlights the number of AI apps already available, many are rated as 18+ so it is important to speak to our children about them and the risks associated with them. Examples of AI chatbots that your child may have heard of are Character.AI (18+) and My AI from Snapchat (13+). What are the risks? • Over reliance on AI companions, for example they may replace ‘real life’ friendships or over reliance on using them for homework or problem solving. • Exposure to inappropriate content. • Privacy/data risks. • Misinformation as not all information shared is correct and can be biased.
How can I protect my child? • Check age ratings of any apps or websites that your child accesses. • Discuss the risks of AI chatbots with them and have open conversations about why they may be using them. • Set up appropriate parental controls on their devices/ broadband. • Chat to your child regularly and ensure your child knows that they should talk to you or another trusted adult if anything concerns them. Further information https://www.esafety.gov.au/newsroo m/blogs/ai-chatbots-andcompanions-risks-to-children-andyoung-people
December 2025
New Technology As some children may be receiving new technology or related games at Christmas, here is a quick reminder of the importance of setting up appropriate parental controls.
Games/Consoles - Check age ratings: look at the PEGI rating of any new games. Remember, PEGI rates the gameplay so whilst it is important to review age ratings, you must also check to see if it has any communication elements. - If a game does allow your child to communicate with others, then adjust or disable the settings as appropriate to your child. - On the device itself, set up applicable controls such as restricting spending limits. Follow the links below to find out how to set up Parental Controls for popular devices here: Xbox: https://www.xbox.com/en-GB/family-hub PS5: https://www.playstation.com/en-gb/support/account/ps5-parentalcontrols-spending-limits/ Nintendo Switch: https://www.nintendo.com/en-gb/Hardware/NintendoSwitch-Parental-Controls/Nintendo-Switch-2-Nintendo-Switch-ParentalControls-2873385.html
Tablets/Smart phones Set up parental controls on the device to prevent purchases, restrict content viewed and adjust privacy settings. Furthermore, remember to check any apps your child requests to check that they are suitable for their age. Follow the links below to find out more: iPhones/iPad: https://support.apple.com/en-gb/105121 Android Device: https://support.google.com/googleplay/answer/1075738
Further information https://www.internetmatters.org/parental-controls/
The Safety-First Smartphone The Other phone is a new smartphone, which includes “SafetyMode” software. The software automatically blocks nudity, profanity, and bullying language in real time. You can find out more here: https://otherphone.co.uk/. Smart Phone Free Childhood also list some alternatives that you could consider here: https://www.smartphonefreechildhood.org/alternatives. Please note, that the inclusion of these models does not constitute an endorsement or recommendation. While these devices may provide a ‘safer’ alternative to traditional smartphones, there are still potential risks associated with children using any type of phone.