A child studies online as schools close due to COVID-19. — VNA/VNS Photo

HÀ NỘI — An online campaign was launched on Friday to help parents provide advice to children on how to use the internet wisely and safely while staying at home amid the COVID-19 pandemic.
Co-organised by the Ministry of Labour, Invalids and Social Affairs (MOLISA)’s Department of Child Affairs, Child Rights Governance Network, and the Management and Sustainable Development Institute (MSD), with the financial support of Save the Children International (SCI), the campaign “Vui Online – Vui COVID” (To go online happily, to fight COVID-19) is underway through May 24.

Children are spending more time online during the period of social distancing, said deputy head of the Department of Child Affairs Nguyễn Thị Nga. The internet has not only been an effective tool for kids to study and stay socially connected but it also poses a great threat to them.
According to an MSD survey, the most common threats children face online include personal information theft, fake news, cyber fraud, cyber bullying and sexual abuse.
It is important to instruct both adults and children on browsing the web safely, Nga said, adding that it is not only about technique but also how to be smart in “virtual” relationships.
The campaign will provide parents and children with useful tips and interesting challenges. — VNS