Online scams are designed to trigger urgency, curiosity, trust or fear. A message may promise a prize, warn that an account will close or pretend to come from a friend. Being deceived is not a sign that a child is foolish. Clear routines and a calm adult response make it more likely that they will ask for help.
Teach three concrete steps
- Pause: do not click, reply, transfer money or share a code.
- Ask: show the message to a trusted adult.
- Check: open the official app or website separately instead of using the message link.
Put the steps beside the device or save them as a simple visual. Practise when everyone is calm. The UK National Cyber Security Centre offers age-appropriate CyberFirst Navigators activities for young people aged 11–14 and CyberSprinters home activities for ages 7–11.
Rehearse common patterns
Use made-up examples: “You won a free game item”, “Your account closes today”, “I’m your friend — send money and keep it secret”, or “Tell me the verification code”. Ask the child to point to the step they would use. A script such as “I don’t make online decisions until I check” can be easier than a vague warning to “be careful”.
Add practical account protection
With adult support, use a different strong password for important accounts, consider a password manager and turn on two-step verification. The NCSC explains both strong password creation and two-step verification. Keep family boundaries clear; safety support should not mean removing all privacy or demanding every password.
Respond without blame
If a child clicks or shares something, thank them for telling you. Stop further contact, change any affected password through the official service, report the account or message and seek appropriate help. A calm response supports future disclosure. Pair this plan with our guide to online privacy for autistic and ADHD children.
This is general information shared for parent awareness, not medical advice. Every child is different — please confirm decisions with your child’s doctor or a suitably qualified professional.