Mexico and Argentina warn of online safety risks for children

In Ciudad Juárez, Mexico, Yamelith Muñiz, director of the State Cyber Police, said a lack of parental supervision over devices and social‑media use is a key factor behind minors becoming victims of viral challenges, online manipulation and sexual crimes. She highlighted that most cases stem from video‑games and entertainment platforms, not the platforms themselves, and urged parents to enforce age limits, use parental controls and follow a guide developed with TikTok and Fundación PAS. The guide also enables the platform to alert authorities when a teen posts content that may indicate suicidal intent.

In Argentina, the Ministry of Public Tutelage and the Argentine Society of Pediatrics launched a campaign warning that children and adolescents are increasingly turning to artificial‑intelligence tools for mental‑health advice. UNICEF data show more than half of youths aged 9‑17 use AI, with 95 % owning a smartphone. Officials warned that AI can give the illusion of empathy, potentially delaying professional help and spreading misinformation. The campaign stresses that human‑to‑human interaction remains essential and advises against using AI for medical or emotional support.