How to Keep Children Safe Online in a Changing Threat Landscape

The most effective way to protect children online is to combine layered technical controls with ongoing, honest conversations about digital risks. Modern threats, including AI-powered scams, cyberbullying, inappropriate content, and predatory behavior, require a proactive approach that balances privacy, oversight, and education. 

The right mix of network-level protections, device management, and family engagement helps ensure children can safely navigate technology while building the skills they need for the future.

Safeguarding Children Online with Practical Security Strategies

In this episode of the Demystifying Microsoft podcast, host Nathan Taylor (SVP, Global Microsoft Practice Leader at the Sourcepass MCOE) and guest Dom Kirby (Senior Director of Professional Services, Pax8) discuss actionable strategies for safeguarding children online to help organizations and families address the realities of modern digital threats. Threat modeling, psychological awareness, and responsible technology use are essential for building resilience against cyberbullying, AI-driven risks, and inappropriate content.

Layered security controls such as Microsoft Family Safety, Cloudflare DNS, and Bark phone provide practical oversight and enable ongoing education and open dialogue. These approaches support safer technology adoption and empower decision makers to protect what matters most.

Timestamped Key Moments

• 00:00 — Introduction and episode overview
• 02:39 — Threat modeling and why digital safety matters
• 06:15 — The impact of social media, cyberbullying, and AI companions
• 10:06 — Balancing privacy, individuality, and monitoring
• 14:30 — Security controls including Microsoft Defender, Family Safety, Eero, Cloudflare DNS
• 17:34 — Device management and parental controls
• 32:25 — AI risks, predatory technology, and digital literacy
• 39:10 — Reducing screen time and enabling responsible technology use
• Outro — How to learn more and connect with experts

What are the Top Online Threats for Kids?

Children face a range of digital risks, including cyberbullying, exposure to inappropriate content, identity theft, and AI-powered scams. Social media platforms and gaming devices introduce new vulnerabilities, while AI-driven chatbots and deepfake technology create novel challenges for families.

How do Layered Security Controls Protect Children?

Effective protection starts with network-level safeguards, such as Cloudflare DNS for malware and adult content filtering, and continues with device-level tools like Microsoft Family Safety and Defender. These solutions provide content filtering, screen time management, and activity monitoring across Windows, iOS, and Android devices. Application-level controls, including Bark phone and Family Link, offer granular oversight and approval flows for app downloads and permissions.

Why Ongoing Digital Safety Conversations Matter for Kids

Technical controls alone cannot address every risk. Open, honest conversations about digital safety, privacy, and responsible technology use are critical. Building trust and awareness helps children recognize threats, make informed decisions, and develop resilience against manipulation and addiction.

Effective Strategies and Tools for Keeping Kids Safe Online

• Using Microsoft Family Safety for weekly activity reports and screen time limits
• Implementing Cloudflare DNS for network-wide filtering, including guest devices
• Managing app permissions and downloads with Family Link on Android
• Choosing age-appropriate devices, such as GPS-enabled watches with limited contact databases
• Setting up layered monitoring and alerting for behavioral changes and risky patterns

Strengthen Digital Safety with Sourcepass MCOE Guidance

Protecting children online requires more than technical controls. Ongoing education, layered oversight, and a commitment to adapting as threats evolve are essential. Sourcepass MCOE provides expert guidance and proven solutions to help organizations and families deploy effective security tools, manage digital risks, and foster safe technology habits.

For actionable insights and updates on digital safety, subscribe to the Demystifying Microsoft podcast.

If you’re ready to review your security strategy or want to discuss options for deploying family safety tools, connect with a Sourcepass MCOE specialist to take the next step.