AI replaces parents for a third of British kids
A new study reveals that 30% of under-18s in Britain now prefer using AI chatbots for help, conversation and companionship instead of turning to their parents. Researchers say this marks a 'profound shift in youth behaviour'.
Parents concerned over AI risks
More than a quarter of parents report their child has formed an online friendship with someone they have never met in real life. The findings come from the Norton Insights Report: Connected Kids. A third of parents do not think their child understands that AI can generate inaccurate or misleading information, while 40% are not confident their child can tell the difference between AI-generated and real content.
Widow shares experience
Louise Liddle, from Northumberland, has two sons aged nine and 12. She said: 'I've certainly noticed my boys using AI to try and navigate some of their relationships with friends. Their dad has passed away and I've seen them using ChatGPT for help on how to talk to their friends in new schools who might not know about their loss. It's the kind of thing they would have previously chatted about with me.'
Parents taking action
Three-quarters of parents fear AI could be used to create fake images or conversations involving their child. In response, half of British parents have taken active steps to reduce potential AI risks. Nearly two-thirds monitor their child's online activity more closely, have discussed AI risks, and restricted access to certain apps. More than half have limited screen time, and 52% have blocked or filtered content.
Expert advice
Leyla Bilge, global head of scam research at Norton, said: 'AI is taking the idea of stranger danger to a whole new level. Parents have spent the last couple of years trying to keep up with the new risks AI poses to their children all as the tech continues to evolve.' She added: 'There are practical steps parents can take to protect their kids from AI threats... Not shying away from regular check-ins about things they've seen online, friends made in the digital space and confusing interactions they may have had - this will all be key to keeping an open dialogue.'
New educational resource
Norton is introducing 'The Bots & The Bees', a resource providing expert guidance and practical advice to help parents and children connect in the age of AI.
