As smartphones and digital services become a normal part of everyday life, child safety experts in the UAE are encouraging parents to pay closer attention to how their children use shopping, food delivery and payment applications.

The warning comes amid growing concerns that some children are placing online orders, making purchases and even receiving deliveries at home without their parents being aware.

While technology has made life easier for families, experts say it has also introduced new challenges that require greater awareness and supervision.

Growing Use of Apps Among Children Raises Concerns

The Child Safety Organisation, operating under the Sharjah Family and Community Council, has highlighted the need for parents to actively monitor children's digital activities.

According to the organisation, many youngsters are becoming increasingly comfortable using smartphones to order meals, toys, games and other products online. In certain cases, children have also interacted directly with delivery drivers when orders arrive at their homes.

Safety specialists say these situations may seem harmless, but they can expose children and families to unnecessary risks if proper supervision is not in place.

The organisation stressed that the goal is not to discourage children from using technology, but to help families create safer habits around digital platforms.

Online Convenience Can Come With Hidden Risks

Ordering products online has never been easier. With just a few taps, users can buy almost anything and have it delivered to their doorstep.

However, experts warn that children may not fully understand the importance of protecting personal information or the consequences of making purchases online.

Some of the risks associated with unsupervised online ordering include:

  • Unauthorised purchases using saved payment methods
  • Sharing personal details such as home addresses or phone numbers
  • Exposure to online scams or suspicious sellers
  • Accidental subscriptions or in-app purchases
  • Receiving deliveries without adult supervision

Experts believe awareness is the first step toward reducing these risks and creating a safer digital environment for children.

Parents Encouraged to Set Clear Boundaries

Child safety specialists recommend that families establish simple and clear rules around online shopping and delivery services.

Parents should discuss which apps children are allowed to use, what types of purchases are permitted and how payments should be approved.

Creating these boundaries early can help children develop a healthy relationship with technology while understanding the responsibilities that come with it.

Regular conversations about online safety are also important. Children who understand concepts such as privacy, personal information and responsible spending are generally better equipped to navigate the digital world safely.

Digital Literacy Is Becoming an Essential Skill

Experts say digital access should be treated as a gradual learning experience rather than unlimited freedom.

Just as children are taught road safety or financial responsibility, they also need guidance on how to use online platforms safely and responsibly.

Families are encouraged to take practical steps such as:

  • Activating purchase notifications on devices
  • Reviewing app permissions regularly
  • Using parental control features
  • Disabling one-click or automatic payment options
  • Monitoring account activity and transaction history
  • Teaching children not to share personal information online

These small actions can significantly reduce risks while still allowing children to benefit from the convenience of modern technology.

Delivery Safety Is Equally Important

One area receiving particular attention is how children interact with delivery personnel.

Safety experts strongly advise that children should not answer the door to delivery workers unless a parent or responsible adult is present.

Even when an order is expected, adults should ideally handle the delivery process and ensure children understand basic safety rules, including never sharing home addresses, phone numbers or personal details through apps or online conversations.

Teaching these habits early can help children develop stronger awareness of both online and real-world safety.

Balancing Technology With Supervision

The rapid growth of delivery apps, online shopping platforms and digital payment services has transformed daily life across the UAE.

For families, the challenge is finding the right balance between allowing children to explore technology and ensuring they do so safely.

Child safety experts emphasize that technology itself is not the problem. Instead, children need guidance, supervision and open communication to use digital services responsibly.

By setting clear rules, staying involved and encouraging healthy online habits, parents can help their children enjoy the benefits of technology while staying safe in an increasingly connected world.