Cybersecurity professionals live and breathe risk management. Every day, we decide which risks to accept, which to avoid, and which to mitigate. But when it comes to children’s online safety, we’re not applying the same framework, and the consequences are becoming more serious with every new technology.

From social media and cyberbullying to grooming in online games and scams sophisticated enough to fool adults and the terrifying rise of AI-generated deepfakes, children are navigating a threat landscape that is growing more dangerous by the day. Yet, too often, the response from schools, parents, and governments is to avoid risk (ban platforms, block sites) or accept it (shrug and hope for the best). Both approaches fail, pushing children down darker paths and leaving them unprepared.

As both a SOC analyst and a school governor, Jack brings a dual perspective: the structured, methodical lens of cybersecurity and the lived reality of what children are facing right now. This talk challenges us to stop avoiding or accepting and instead mitigate through relevant, engaging, and empowering education that speaks the language of children today. Because safeguarding the next generation online isn’t optional; it’s urgent.