End-to-end encryption
What is end-to-end encryption?
End-to-end encryption (E2EE) is a method of communication that that prevents third parties from accessing the information shared from one person to another. This allows individuals to send and receive videos, images and text securely, preventing data breaches and hacking.
Many services use E2EE including WhatsApp, Signal and Telegram. Meta is in the process of implementing E2EE on both Facebook and Instagram.
For more information about E2EE visit:
- Internet Watch Foundation – End-to-end encryption(external link)
- ThinkUKnow – What is end-to-end encryption?(external link)
- Internet Matters - What is encryption and how does it impact children’s online safety?(external link)
Are there risks with E2EE?
E2EE is common and beneficial in some contexts. However, there are some negative implications for the online safety of tamariki. Currently, companies that do not use E2EE scan their platforms to detect and report child sexual abuse material to law enforcement, which ensures offenders are prosecuted and victims are safeguarded.
E2EE prevents companies and law enforcement from being able to detect this illegal activity occurring on their platforms. As a result, The National Centre for Missing and Exploited Children(external link) highlights that these platforms will likely be used by individuals to share child sexual abuse material and groom children undetected.
Generative artificial intelligence (AI)
What is Generative AI?
Generative AI or Gen AI refers to machines or software that use prompts or questions to create text, images, audio and videos that look like they were human-created. Some common examples of Gen AI are ChatGPT, OpenAI and DALL-E.
For more information about Gen AI visit:
- Ministry of Education - Generative AI(external link)
- Internet Matters - A parent’s guide to using AI with kids(external link)
Are there risks with Gen AI?
Whilst it can be acknowledged that Gen AI has its benefits, it comes with risk. The advance and ease of access of technology has led to an increase in GenAI being used to commit harmful crimes in the online space. The Department of Internal Affairs’ Digital Child Exploitation Team continues to witness a rise in the number of offenders using Gen AI to create highly realistic child sexual exploitation material.
Before you or your whānau use Gen AI software it is important to research the tool and make sure its age-appropriate for your child. The Australian eSafety Commssioner has resources on popular Gen AI on their website(external link) including: