Don't Leave Children Alone on Social Media

Risks Behind the Screen

The digital landscape has become a crucial aspect of children's and adolescents' lives, providing avenues for learning, accessing information, social interaction, and self-expression.

Nevertheless, these advantages come with a range of hazards, such as cyberbullying, scams, grooming, online harassment, sharing of private data and images, and psychological manipulation. Importantly, these dangers can stem from regular online activities.

Consequently, safeguarding children online should go beyond simple reminders or limiting technology use. It is essential for children to learn to identify risks, react appropriately, actively seek assistance, and have a supportive person nearby who is willing to listen when necessary.

This perspective is also embraced by the 2026 "No One Alone" Campaign, which focuses on "Preventing Online Abuse" and promotes the message "Connect Without Harm."

In Lam Dong, the Provincial Police, in collaboration with the Department of Education and Training and the Lam Dong Digital Trust Club, initiated a campaign targeting four leading educational institutions, attracting nearly 5,000 participants, including students, parents, officials, teachers, key opinion leaders (KOLs), content creators, and supportive organizations.

The activities prioritize raising awareness, providing training on digital safety skills, conducting online competitions, selecting "School Digital Safety Ambassadors," and promoting the "Five Minutes with Your Child" initiative.

By establishing these foundational activities, the campaign aims to enhance its network of support and protection for children and teenagers across educational institutions in the province.

The objective is not to isolate children from technology but rather to guide them in using it safely and responsibly while encouraging them to report anything suspicious they may encounter. Prompt identification of potential threats, along with immediate support, can avert more significant harm.

Support Systems for Children

The initiative not only focuses on increasing awareness of online dangers but also equips children with self-protection skills and guidance on how to ask for help.

The "School Digital Safety Ambassador" program seeks to recognize students who have the necessary knowledge, a keen sense of responsibility, and the capability to engage respectfully online, while also encouraging positive behavior among their classmates.

This approach ensures that children are active participants in creating a safer online space rather than just being passive recipients of protection.

In families and educational settings, the "Five Minutes with Your Child" program motivates parents and teachers to dedicate a few minutes each day to asking questions, engaging in conversations with children, and listening to their online experiences.

Digital content creator Tong Thi My Phuong notes that while five minutes may appear to be a short duration, it can serve as a catalyst for a meaningful discussion.

The key is that children feel acknowledged and valued, enabling them to express their experiences without the fear of being judged too quickly.

In addition to families and educational institutions, law enforcement plays a vital role in preventing online abuse, managing reports, and addressing incidents.

Government agencies, organizations, and community associations collaborate with the police, while media platforms, tech companies, influencers, and content creators unite to promote awareness and foster positive values.

If support is required, children and their guardians can reach out to the National Child Protection Hotline by dialing 111 or contact the Cybersecurity Division of the Provincial Police at 0693.449.407.

During the inauguration event for the 2026 "No One Alone" Campaign at Yersin University in Da Lat, Senior Colonel Dau Xuan Bao, the Deputy Director of the Provincial Police, highlighted that the success of the campaign should not be gauged merely by the number of events conducted or individuals engaged, but rather by the transformation in awareness and behavior.

Kids should be able to identify dubious friend requests, decline unsafe requests, and report situations where they feel threatened or mistreated.

Caregivers need to develop their listening skills, while educators should recognize early signs of trouble and provide appropriate assistance.

The Provincial Police seeks to unite agencies, organizations, schools, experts, and communities to create a grassroots support and protection system for children.

The primary objective is to make sure that when children face difficulties, they know where to find help, and that every online interaction is founded on respect and mutual support instead of leading to further harm.