Kaspersky warns of grooming, AI risks as WhatsApp, YouTube lead children’s app use in SA

WhatsApp and YouTube dominate children's app usage in South Africa, according to Kaspersky's data, accounting for 33.8% and 26.8% of time spent on the top 10 mobile apps, respectively. Kaspersky warns of grooming, cyberbullying, and emerging AI-related risks across online platforms. The cybersecurity company emphasizes that platforms allowing direct communication between children can expose them to strangers who may deceive, manipulate, blackmail, or force them into harmful or illegal activities.

Kaspersky's Andrey Sidenko advises parents to discourage interactions with strangers and sharing of personal information online. Childline South Africa reports a rise in cyberbullying cases, with a 7.14% increase in calls during the last financial year. The organization has received reports of private information being exposed, sexual rumors spreading, and inappropriate material shared via Instagram and WhatsApp.

The Film and Publication Board warns of sextortion, a form of online child sexual exploitation, and urges reporting of such content. Kaspersky also cautions about AI-generated deepfakes that could harm children's digital reputations. Parents should monitor signs of distress and schools should address online abuse's impact on attendance, concentration, and relationships.