New research finds that 40% of children have a tablet by age 2 and spend about 2.5 hours per day on screen time. Gaming time has surged 65% since 2020, and traditional TV viewing has declined, while short-form video platforms like TikTok and YouTube Shorts are on the rise, underscoring the increasingly complex media environment that parents must navigate in their children's early years. Read more key findings and find the full report here.
VIDEO: Digital Essentials for Seniors
This video by Older Adults Technology Service (OATS) and AARP explores how to create strong passwords, spotting and avoiding online spam and phishing attempts, securing online banking, and other useful digital tips. Watch now.
ARTICLE: Digital Essentials: Online Safety
Research shows that deepfake pornography makes up 98% of all deepfake videos online, and 99% of the individuals targeted in deepfake pornography are women. It now takes less that 25 minutes and costs $0 to create a 60-second deepfake pornographic video of anyone using just one clear face image. Create a free account with medium.com to read more about this troubling trend.
VIDEO: Unpacking the Threat of Chatbots (with Adam Dodge)
Research shows kids spend more time on Character AI than TikTok. Why? Companion bots (chatbots), like Character AI, are more addictive than social media because they simulate real human relationships without the potential for conflict. They offer 24/7 validation - a “friend” who is always there to support, entertain and agree with you. It’s nice in theory but harmful in practice. Digital safety advocate Adam Dodge unpacks this phenomenon here.