Abstract

With the rapid digitalization of daily life, reliance on technology has become an essential part for family members, including children. As a result, children are increasingly exposed to different types of online risks, yet research on their cybersecurity awareness, particularly in Saudi Arabia, remains limited. Therefore, this study investigates cybersecurity awareness and online safety practices among Saudi children aged 9–17, alongside their parents’ perceptions and involvement. A cross-sectional survey was conducted with 112 parents and their children, examining parental monitoring, digital literacy, children’s online behaviors, and exposure to online cyber risks. The findings of this study indicate that while most parents are highly educated, their engagement in children’s online safety is moderate, with limited use of monitoring tools. Children demonstrate basic understanding of cybersecurity concepts, particularly regarding passwords, yet they use unsafe practices, such as password reuse and infrequent account sign-out. Both parents and children report concerns about exposure to inappropriate content and cyberbullying, highlighting partial awareness of social threats. The study underscores the need for integrated, family-centered cybersecurity education programs, combining school-based initiatives with parental digital literacy training to foster safer online environments for children.

Key words: Cybersecurity, Cybersecurity awareness, children, parental involvement, online safety, Saudi Arabia.