PROTECTING CHILDREN AND ADOLESCENTS ONLINE: CHALLENGES, SOLUTIONS, TECHNOLOGY, AND SECURITY

Abstract

This Final Course Project analyzes the challenges of protecting children and adolescents in the digital environment, especially in the face of social vulnerability and the lack of family preparedness to mediate the use of social networks. The central problem investigated consists of the unpreparedness of families and the insufficiency of public policies for digital education, factors that contribute to the exposure of minors to risks such as cyberbullying, online harassment, and exploitation of personal data. It is hypothesized that, in a society marked by the centrality of social networks, the lack of family guidance and support exacerbates these vulnerabilities, compromising the effectiveness of the fundamental rights enshrined in the Constitution and the Statute of Children and Adolescents. The overall objective is to legally analyze the mechanisms for protecting children and adolescents on the internet, identifying the responsibilities of the family, the State, and society. Among the specific objectives, the following stand out: investigating the relationship between social vulnerability and digital risks, analyzing applicable Brazilian legislation (ECA, Marco Civil da Internet, and LGPD), and evaluating technological solutions aimed at digital protection. The methodology used is qualitative, with bibliographic and documentary research in legislation, doctrines, scientific articles, and technical reports. The expected results consist of contributing to a critical understanding of contemporary challenges, reinforcing the need for public policies, family training, and the conscious use of technology as a way to ensure the comprehensive protection of children and adolescents.