50 Essential Online Safety Questions for Parents & Kids
- John O'Maley
- Feb 23
- 4 min read
Updated: Mar 4
25 Questions Kids Should Ask Parents (With Answers Parents Can Give)
1. Internet Dangers
What are some of the biggest dangers online?
Scammers, hackers, cyberbullies, inappropriate content, and online predators who try to trick kids.
How do I know if a website is safe?
Look for “https” in the URL, avoid pop-ups, and never enter personal details without asking me first.
What should I do if I accidentally click on a bad link?
Close the page, don’t enter any information, and tell me immediately so we can check for risks.
2. Pornography
Why is watching pornography bad for kids?
It presents a fake version of relationships, can be addictive, and may expose you to harmful ideas.
What should I do if I see something inappropriate by accident?
Don’t be embarrassed—tell me right away so I can block it and help you understand why it’s harmful.
What if my friends send me inappropriate pictures?
Don’t open them. Delete them and tell me. You won’t get in trouble for doing the right thing.
3. Sexting
Why is sexting dangerous?
Once a picture is sent, you lose control of it. It can be shared, stolen, or used against you later.
What should I do if someone asks me to send a private picture?
Say no, block them, and tell me immediately.
Can I get in trouble for receiving inappropriate images?
Yes, even if you didn’t ask for them. Delete them and tell me so we can handle it together.
What if someone threatens to share private pictures of me?
This is called sextortion. Never give in to their demands—take screenshots, block them, and tell me.
4. Cyberbullying
What is cyberbullying?
When someone repeatedly harasses, threatens, or embarrasses another person online.
What should I do if someone is bullying me online?
Don’t respond, take screenshots, block them, and tell me so we can report them together.
What if I see someone else being bullied?
Support the person being bullied and report it to an adult.
How do I know if I am being a bully without realizing it?
If you ever send mean messages, spread rumors, or share embarrassing things about someone else, it’s bullying.
5. Online Predators
How do predators trick kids online?
They pretend to be your age, act friendly, offer gifts, and try to get personal information.
What should I do if a stranger messages me?
Never respond. Block them and tell me so we can report them.
How can I tell if someone online is dangerous?
If they ask for personal details, try to move chats to private, or make you feel uncomfortable, that’s a red flag.
Why shouldn’t I share personal information with people I meet online?
Because once it’s out there, you lose control over who sees it.
What should I do if someone online asks to meet me in person?
Never agree. Even if they seem nice, it could be dangerous. Always tell me if someone asks.
6. Video Game Risks
Can I talk to strangers in online games?
It’s best to only chat with people you know in real life.
Are all video games safe to play?
Not all. Some have inappropriate content, violence, or unsafe chat rooms.
What should I do if someone in a game chat makes me feel uncomfortable?
Mute, block, and report them. Never respond, and tell me if it happens.
Can video games be addictive?
Yes. It’s important to take breaks and not let gaming interfere with school, sleep, or family time.
How do I know if I’m spending too much time on video games?
If it starts affecting your schoolwork, sleep, or friendships, it’s time to cut back.
How do I know if a game is safe to download?
Check reviews, avoid unofficial websites, and ask me before downloading anything.
25 Questions Parents Should Ask Their Kids (With Answers for Discussion)
1. Internet Dangers
What do you like to do most online?
Have you ever seen something online that made you uncomfortable?
Do you know how to tell if a website is real or fake?
2. Pornography
Has anyone ever sent you a link or image that seemed inappropriate?
Do you know why watching explicit content can be harmful?
What would you do if you came across something inappropriate?
3. Sexting
Do you know what sexting is and why it’s dangerous?
Has anyone ever pressured you to send a private picture?
What would you do if a friend said they were sending private photos to someone?
4. Cyberbullying
Have you ever seen someone get bullied online? How did it make you feel?
Has anyone ever said something mean or hurtful to you on the internet?
Would you feel comfortable telling me if someone bullied you online?
5. Online Predators
Have you ever been contacted by someone you don’t know online?
Do you understand why it’s important not to share personal details?
What would you do if someone online asked to meet you in person?
6. Video Game Risks
What games do you play, and do they allow chat with strangers?
Has anyone ever said something creepy or inappropriate in a game chat?
What do you think is a healthy amount of time to spend on video games?
Have you ever seen someone cheat, scam, or steal in an online game?
Do you know how to report a toxic player in a game?
What do you do if you get angry while gaming?
Do you understand why some games have age ratings?
Do you know the risks of buying things in games without permission?
What would you do if someone asked you for your password in a game?
Do you feel safe and in control when you play games online?
Final Thoughts
These 50 questions are designed to spark open conversations between parents and kids, empowering families to navigate the internet safely.
For more information, education and resources parents can use to help protect their children online go to strongerfamiliesonline.org. Click this link to find leading resources for parents.
Warm Regards,
Deacon John O’Maley
Founder/Parents Protecting Children
Empowering Catholic families to navigate the digital world with faith, safety, & responsibility
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