If you’re a parent of a child under 16 in Skellefteå – especially if you’re new here – you might be unsure how much freedom is too much when it comes to phones. Swedish kids are generally given a lot of independence, but that doesn’t mean you should turn a blind eye to what they’re doing online, especially given the awful recent court case.
Online predators exist here too. And they’re good at hiding.
Understanding the risks
Children are often trusting, curious, and eager to make new connections – especially if they’re adjusting to a new country or school. Predators know this. Here’s what to watch for:
– They build fake friendships by pretending to be someone the child’s age with similar interests
– They ask for personal info like photos, school names, or where the child lives
– They try to move the chat to apps or platforms that are harder for adults to monitor
– They send or request sexual content, often gradually, in ways that try to normalise it
– They use pressure or threats to keep the child from telling anyone Childnet
What to check on your child’s phone
You don’t need to be a tech expert to spot warning signs. Here are some simple, important steps you can take:
1. Review installed apps
Look for messaging or social networking apps – especially unfamiliar ones. If you don’t know what an app does, look it up. Some apps may look harmless but are designed to hide content.
Tip: Get familiar with the apps kids in Sweden actually use. Popular ones include Snapchat, TikTok, WhatsApp, Discord, and Telegram. Some also use apps like Kik or Omegle, which are riskier.
2. Read through message history
Check who your child is talking to and what’s being said. Look out for strangers, secrecy, or messages that feel too mature. Anyone avoiding video calls or encouraging your child to delete messages should raise concern.
3. Monitor social media
Check their profiles, comments and friend lists. Are they connected to people they actually know in real life? Have they posted anything that seems unusual or inappropriate?
4. Look at photos and videos
Scroll through their photo gallery. Keep an eye out for inappropriate content – whether it’s been sent to them or taken by them under pressure.
5. Check browser history
Search history can give you insight into what they’re curious about, or what someone might be directing them to. If they’ve been taught to clear their history regularly, that’s a red flag too.
6. Review call logs
Take note of any repeated or unknown numbers, and ask who they belong to.
7. Use parental control tools
There are apps that can help you keep your child’s device safe without constant hovering. These include:
These apps can help you monitor your child's online activity, block inappropriate content, and set time limits. Popular options include:
8. Talk to your child – regularly
Checking their phone shouldn’t feel like an interrogation. Make it part of a regular conversation.
Explain what you’re doing and why. Talk about the risks of talking to strangers online. Make it clear they can always come to you, no matter what.
9. Help them understand:
– Not everyone online is who they say they are
– They should never share personal details or images
– If someone makes them feel weird or unsafe, they should tell you – immediately
– Establish rules about phone usage, including time limits, app restrictions, and website access. This is especially important as screen time habits can vary between cultures.
– But above all, limit screen time to an hour a day or less, and DO NOT allow your child to have their device in their room overnight. Their device must ALWAYS be left with the parents.
10. Important considerations for newcomers to Skellefteå
If you're new to Sweden, parenting here can feel unfamiliar – especially around freedom and boundaries. Here are a few extra things to keep in mind:
– Understand Swedish norms: Familiarise yourself with Swedish cultural norms regarding children's independence and online behaviour. This will help you find a balance between protecting your child and respecting their autonomy as they grow. Swedish kids are often allowed to explore and interact online at a younger age. That doesn’t mean you shouldn’t step in – but it can be helpful to know what other parents expect.
– Use local resources: Skellefteå municipality offers various resources for families, including guidance on internet safety. Check the municipality's website for information on workshops or support groups. Skellefteå
– Connect with other parents: Talk to other parents in Skellefteå, both Swedish and other newcomers, to learn about their experiences and strategies for online safety. This can provide valuable insights and support.
– Learn the language: If you're still learning Swedish, consider using translation tools, such as Google Translate or Google Lens (for screenshots) or taking language classes to improve your understanding of online content and communication. This will enable you to better monitor your child's online interactions.
– Be aware of local cybercrime trends: Stay informed about any specific online safety concerns or cybercrime trends that may be prevalent in the Skellefteå area or in Sweden as a whole. Local news sources such as Norran.se and community Facebook forums can be helpful resources.
Additional resources
- Swedish Safer Internet Centre: Offers resources and support for online safety in Sweden. Better Internet for Kids
- Be Internet Awesome by Google: Provides tools and resources to teach children about online safety. Be Internet Awesome
- Childnet International: Offers free internet safety resources for parents. Childnet
- Internet Matters: Provides online safety leaflets and resources. Internet Matters
- ECPAT Sweden: Works to combat the sexual exploitation of children online. ECPAT