From streaming movies to attending virtual classes, families are online more than ever, and that’s not changing anytime soon. But with so many connected devices in the home, digital safety is no longer optional. It’s essential.
Whether you’re browsing over high-speed fiber, cable or a fixed wireless network, these seven practical tips can help you create a safer and smarter online experience for everyone in the family.
Why Internet Safety Matters for Families
According to Pew Research, 46% of kids aged 13-17 use the internet almost constantly. That means cyberthreats like phishing, identity theft, cyberbullying and exposure to harmful content can reach your family at any time.
Practicing family internet safety isn’t just about installing filters. It’s about building good habits, communicating openly and using the right tools to stay secure. Use our checklist to ensure your family stays safe and your data is protected online.
1. Set Age-Appropriate Boundaries for Kids
Every family is different, but some basic rules go a long way. Set digital boundaries that reflect your child’s age and maturity level.
- Use parental controls on devices, routers and apps.
- Keep computers and tablets in shared spaces.
- Limit screen time for younger children.
- Teach older kids how to recognize unsafe behavior online.
Having clear guidelines helps kids feel more confident and keeps them safer.
2. Teach Strong Password Habits Early
Passwords are your first line of defense. Here’s how to help your family build smart password practices from the start:
- Use at least 12 characters with a mix of numbers, symbols and uppercase and lowercase letters.
- Avoid personal info like birthdays or favorite sports teams.
- Never reuse the same password across multiple sites or devices.
- Use a password manager to keep everything secure and easily accessible.
- Turn on multi-factor authentication (MFA) when available.
Making these habits second nature now will pay off in the long run.
3. Spotting Red Flags Online: Scams, Phishing & Malware
Not every threat comes with a warning. Talk to your kids about the signs of unsafe online activity, especially in email, texts and social media. Here’s what to watch for:
- Unfamiliar email addresses or messages with poor grammar
- Urgent requests asking for personal information
- Links that don’t match the sender’s identity
- Downloads from unknown sources
Pro Tip: Pull up a few real scam examples and have your kids “spot the fake.” It’s a hands-on way to build digital awareness.
4. Use Tech Tools to Your Advantage
Technology can be a powerful safety ally—if you use it well. Here are a few tools that can help:
- Parental controls: Block adult content or limit access by time of day.
- Google SafeSearch: Filter explicit results from search engines.
- Screen time tracking: Monitor usage on iOS and Android devices with their built-in trackers.
- DNS filters: Filter content at the network level with services like OpenDNS or CleanBrowsing.
Want to go deeper? Consider security software that includes device-level protection and app monitoring.
5. Create a Family Internet Agreement
A written agreement makes expectations clear and gets everyone on the same page. Be sure to include items like:
- Daily screen time limits
- Rules for downloading apps
- Guidelines for social media usage
- What to do if something online feels unsafe
Make it a conversation, not a contract. Revisit it every few months to adjust as your kids grow and their habits change.
Pro Tip: Create a simple printable version and keep it on the fridge as a reminder.
6. Update and Secure Your Home Network
Your Wi-Fi network is the gateway to everything online. Take these steps to make sure it’s protected:
- Change the default password on your router.
- Keep firmware updated to guard against new threats.
- Use WPA3 encryption if supported by your devices.
- Create a guest network for visitors and smart devices to isolate potential threats.
Need help setting up your network securely? Check out our guide on using your own router with Mercury fiber internet.
7. Keep the Conversation Going
Technology is always changing, and so are the risks. The best thing you can do is create a home environment where kids feel safe asking questions. Set aside time each week to talk about what your kids are seeing online. Praise honesty and curiosity, even when mistakes happen.
The more you talk about online safety, the more confident your family will feel navigating the digital world.
Frequently Asked Internet Safety Questions
What’s the best way to keep my kids safe online?
Use a combination of tech tools, open communication and clear guidelines. Parental controls help, but nothing replaces regular check-ins.
Are there any free tools I can use?
Yes! Google Family Link, CleanBrowsing and built-in phone settings all offer free safety features.
At what age should I give my child a phone?
It depends on your child. Many families wait until middle school, but maturity level matters more than age.
Need a Safer, Faster Connection for Your Family?
At Mercury, we offer fast and reliable fiber and fixed wireless internet across the Midwest, with built-in tools to help keep your home network secure. Check availability in your area and get the connection your family can count on.