The era in which we live, that of the Internet, has greatly facilitated our lives in many ways. One of them is shopping. No need to go to town when you need jeans or a TV. Instead, people shop online. But online shopping has its traps, especially for kids, teens and parents’ wallets!
The influence of advertising
In addition to the many benefits, online shopping also carries risks, especially for children and teenagers. The majority of children in grades 4 to 11 (high school year 5) own their own cell phones, according to a survey of 5,400 Canadian youth.
As a result, children are increasingly finding themselves on the Internet at an early age, independently and unsupervised by their parents, and are exposed to inducements to buy and even attempts at fraud.
They are constantly confronted with targeted and personalized product advertisements online via banners, ads and influencers, and they are greatly influenceable. With a few clicks, the goods are already ordered – without the parents’ permission and without having taken the time to think twice.
Risks associated with online shopping
One of the biggest dangers of online shopping for kids and teens is ordering on invoice. On the Internet, they can buy products without having to pay for them immediately. This makes it easier to spend more money than they or their parents have.
Often there are hidden costs, for example in the shipping costs. Another danger is fake online stores. They attract attention with extremely cheap offers, but never send the goods after payment. Sometimes these stores are so well designed that even adults have a hard time discerning fraudulent offers.
Protecting your kids from the Internet
Of course, despite the possible risks, we should not demonize online shopping. However, it is important to discuss the dangers with children and make them aware of them. Parents can, for example, take a closer look at an online store with their children and make the first purchase together.
Identifying trustworthy online stores is essential here. Important indications in this respect are, for example, the presence on the homepage of legal notices with a valid address, or special labels, such as Trusted Shops. Another tool is special add-ons for web browsers e.g. “TrustedShops” for Chrome. They allow young people to recognize and avoid questionable online stores. The “comments and evaluation” functions of stores or external sites are also useful. If the majority of the evaluations are bad, it is better not to click on the “Buy” button. There are also sites to help you and your children spot a fraudulent site.
Parents can also support their children by explaining the consequences of unpaid bills. Young people are often unaware of the danger of debt.
How kids can protect themselves when shopping online
Children and teens can also reduce the risks themselves when shopping on the Internet. Make them aware that online advertising is not random, but based on their Internet search behavior. Children should critically examine the good deals and discounts offered.
In general, it is important that they do not misrepresent their age. Indeed, if minors give a false date of birth at the time of purchase, it will be almost impossible to get your money back if there is a problem. In addition, before making an expensive purchase, children should ask themselves if it is really necessary, discuss it with their parents or friends and think twice about it. This awareness helps children and teens protect themselves from making high impact purchases.
In conclusion, we can’t watch our children 24 hours a day! So consider not linking their online store account with your credit card or bank account! If they want to buy something online, they will have to tell you about it! If your child has exceeded your credit limit without realizing it, Credit2Go can help. Apply for a loan here!