State Department for Social Protection Principal Secretary Joseph Motari has revealed that children who spend more time on the internet are at a higher risk of cybercrimes.
In a speech read on his behalf by Secretary from Directorate of Children Services Shem Nyakutu, at Machakos University during the National "Safer Internet Day Celebrations, he said that mass use of internet has amplified the production and circulation of child sexual abuse material.
The PS added that while the internet can be a useful tool that helps children engage and learn, it also increases incidents of online grooming, cyber-sex trafficking, sexting and cyber bullying and urged parents, teachers, child protection officers and policy makers to unite and help create a safer internet for children. "Children spending more time online inevitably brings increased risks and threats to children, some of which are unique to the online context," said Monari.
He further disclosed that the risk is getting worse since 80% of children from urban areas are internet users according to a study from Disrupting Harm Study, this study also reveals 6% of Kenyan children have already shared their body images to other internet users and 14% have gone ahead to have a physical meeting with strangers they have met online.
