From schoolwork to social media and first debit cards, kids and teens are growing up in a digital world – and they’re navigating it faster than ever. It’s a great way to learn and connect, but it also comes with risks. As a credit union, we believe in financial wellness and that includes digital safety, and it starts at home. As a parent, you don’t have to be a tech expert to help them stay safe. A few simple conversations and habits can go a long way in protecting their identity, money, and confidence online.

Start with Simple, Smart Habits

Building strong digital habits early can make a big difference. Encourage your kids to:

• Keep it private. Personal details like passwords, addresses, or account info should stay off-limits online.
• Pause before you click. If a link, message, or offer feels rushed or too good to be true, it probably is. 
• Create stronger passwords. Use unique passwords – or even better, passphrases or Multifactor Authentication

Try turning these into quick, casual check-ins instead of one big “talk”. A simple “Hey, have you seen any weird messages lately?” can open the door.

Meet Them Where They Are

Every age comes with different risks – and opportunities to teach.

Younger kids: 

Keep it simple and hands-on. Set boundaries for apps and websites, and explore them together. Help them understand what’s safe to share and what’s not.

Teens:

This is where real-life scenarios matter. Talk about things like fake giveaways, peer pressure, and how quickly information can spread online. Help them think critically, especially when money, urgency, or emotions are involved.

Talk About Scams (Yes, Even for Kids)

Scammers don’t just target adults anymore. Kids and teens are often approached through games, social media, or texts. Some common examples: 

• “Free” in-game rewards that ask for login details
• Fake accounts posing as influencers or friends
• Messages asking for money, gift cards, or verification codes

A good rule to share: If it feels off, pause and check it out together.

Show Them What Safe Looks Like

Kids learn by watching. Modeling safe habits helps make them second nature:

• Log out of shared devices
• Turn on two-factor authentication when available
• Review privacy settings together every so often
• Avoid logging into financial accounts on public Wi-Fi

These small actions build strong habits over time – for both of you.

Keep the Conversation Open

The most important part? Make sure your child feels comfortable coming to you. Let them know they won’t get in trouble for asking questions or speaking up. 

The earlier you hear about something, the easier it is to fix and the more they’ll learn from it. 

If Something Goes Wrong

Even with the best habits, mistakes can happen. If your child clicks on a suspicious link or shares personal or account information: 

• Check passwords right away
• Montor accounts for unusual activity
• Reach out to your financial institution for support

Then talk it through. These moments can be valuable learning experiences. 

Growing Safe, Confident Digital Users

Helping kids and teens stay safe online isn’t about limiting their access, it’s about empowering them with the knowledge to make smart choices. By building strong habits now, you’re helping protect their financial future down the road. 

Key things to keep in mind:
Heritage Grove will never call, email or text asking for sensitive information, such as:

• Login credentials 
• PIN
• Full SSN
• Debit/Credit card numbers
• CVV code
• Code Word  

• Always access digital banking from Heritage Grove’s website or mobile app. 
• Be suspicious of communications asking for sensitive information – don’t provide personal information. 
• Create a unique code word with family or friends that is only used for emergency situations.

Questions? Call/text 503.588.0211 or email creditunion@ourgrovecu.com.

Read more fraud prevention posts:
Keeping Your Card Secure in a Digital World
How To Protect Yourself from AI Scams
Passwords 101: What Every Member Should Know