The internet is a playground but in 2025, it’s also a battleground. Digital threats are everywhere. From anonymous chat apps to AI-enhanced grooming tools, children face more complex and covert risks than ever. It’s no longer enough to install antivirus software or rely on default parental controls. Children are now being introduced to AI “friends” through apps like Gemini Learn about Gemini, the everyday AI assistant from Google and ChatGPT. Could this change how they form real connections? Let’s explore the most pressing digital threats children face this year — and how Gigabit IQ helps parents tackle them.
From Smart Tools to Simulated Companions & AI friends – The Latest Digital Threats to Worry About for Parents
For years, Alexa and Siri were the limit of AI in homes. They were tools, timers, jukeboxes, trivia machines. Nobody confused them for a friend.
But generative AI has taken a different route. ChatGPT, Gemini, and Mark Zuckerberg’s idea of kids having “15 AI friends” don’t just answer questions. They build rapport. They remember preferences, simulate personalities, even offer comfort. To a child, especially one who hasn’t yet learned where reality ends and fiction begins, this is a new kind of relationship. One where the boundaries blur quickly.
If your child starts chatting with Gemini this week, it won’t be because they searched for it. It’ll be because it was quietly made available to them. That’s not innovation. That’s avoidance of accountability.
We’re not saying all AI is harmful. But we are saying it’s too powerful, too persuasive, and too human-like to hand over to children without clear safeguards. If you’re a parent, guardian, teacher, or anyone who cares about the next generation, this is your moment to pause and reflect. Don’t wait for tech companies to set the boundaries. Set them yourself.
See how our parental controls work to protect from digital threats here. Try them risk-free, even if you’re not a customer.
Digital Threat from AI-Powered Grooming & Deepfakes
Predators are now using AI to create fake voices, mimic other children, or craft realistic images and avatars. This makes it harder than ever for children (and even adults) to detect who they’re really speaking to.
Recent coverage in The Guardian and BBC has highlighted how AI can be weaponised in grooming attempts, with Snapchat and Discord mentioned as vulnerable platforms.
FamilyGuard+ detects these platforms and alerts parents when risky apps or messages are in use.
Digital Threat from Inappropriate Games and Virtual Worlds
Apps like Roblox, Zepeto, and even Minecraft servers allow open chats with strangers. Despite age ratings, children can be exposed to digital threats through explicit content, grooming attempts, and bullying. Roblox has recently updated its Parental Controls, but these must be actively enabled and are easy to bypass without ISP-level filters.
Our CyberGuard+ solution blocks malicious domains and flags unusual activity across all devices — without needing to install anything.
Addictive and Harmful Social Media Trends
TikTok continues to drive global trends — not all of them safe. In 2024, we saw the rise of:
- The “Sleepy Chicken” challenge (cooking with cold medicine)
- Disordered eating promoted through ‘thinspo’ videos
- Anonymous Q&A apps like NGL promoting bullying
In 2025, AI-generated filters and content are now being used to distort reality, especially among teen girls, further damaging mental health.
FamilyGuard+ allows parents to block TikTok or set daily time limits, even by device or child profile.
VPNs and Parental Control Workarounds
Teenagers are now more tech-savvy than many adults. VPN apps are easily downloadable and can hide browsing history or enable access to adult content. In fact, according to Ofcom’s 2024 Media Literacy report, 1 in 3 teens admit to using a VPN without their parent’s knowledge.
Gigabit IQ offers VPN blocking at the router level — meaning even tech-savvy kids can’t bypass safety settings.
Phishing Scams & Malware on Gaming Devices
Children aren’t just exposed to digital threats through phones — Xbox, PlayStation, and Nintendo Switch are all internet-connected. Fake game mods and phishing links in chat rooms can result in malware downloads or credit card theft.
CyberGuard+ protects every connected device, including gaming consoles, smart TVs, and IoT devices — 24/7.
Lack of Regulation on New Platforms
While the UK Online Safety Act has created new protections, not all platforms comply equally. Ofcom’s enforcement is growing, but fast-moving platforms (like new AI chatbots) still fall through the cracks.
That’s why families need to take a proactive approach — starting at the network level, before the risk ever reaches the child.
Why Gigabit IQ Offers a Safer Experience Than Other ISPs
Most ISPs provide ‘basic’ safety features — often through third-party apps that are device-specific and easy to uninstall. At Gigabit IQ, we protect from digital threats by doing things differently:
- Router-level protection means safety applies across all devices — even guests or new gadgets
- Customisable profiles for every child let you set rules that grow with them
- VPN block, app filtering, real-time alerts, and device prioritisation — all from one app
We combine FamilyGuard+, CyberGuard+, and our Ultimate WiFi Blast Router to deliver a fully managed and intelligent internet experience.
🛡️ Learn more about what makes us the UK’s safest broadband provider
Need a Quick Safety Check?
Try these simple actions today:
- Check if your child’s device has a VPN app installed
- Visit our online safety hub for updated guides
- Block TikTok or YouTube using your router settings (or upgrade to FamilyGuard+)
🔐 Want to Stop These Digital Threats Before They Reach Your Home?
Internal Links to Explore:
- How to Block YouTube and TikTok Safely
- Top 5 Parental Control Apps (UK)
- Why Online Safety Matters More Than Ever in 2025
