Page 155 - Cyber Defense eMagazine January 2024

Safeguarding Children in the Era of Big Data

By Ron Kerbs, CEO, Kidas

In the ever-evolving landscape of cyberspace, 2023 unveiled a concerning trend: major players in the
tech industry, including giants like Meta and Discord, were found either misusing or inadequately handling
data — particularly data belonging to children. As we stride into 2024, legislative and regulatory efforts
are underway to address these data privacy concerns. However, it is crucial for parents, guardians,
schools and anyone responsible for the well-being of children to remain vigilant. Rather than solely relying
on regulatory measures, proactive steps must be taken to educate and empower the younger generation
with proper online etiquette and safety guidelines.

The Big Data Dilemma

The past year has highlighted instances where big data companies and social media platforms, entrusted
with the sensitive information of millions, fell short in safeguarding the privacy of their youngest users.
From targeted advertising to data breaches, vulnerabilities in existing systems became apparent, raising
serious questions about the ethics of data collection and usage.

Cyber Defense eMagazine – January 2024 Edition 155
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