How to Protect Kids in a Digital World: Online Safety, AI Dangers, and Parental Guidance

In this episode, host Aaron Crow welcomes cybersecurity expert John Schimanski Jr., Chief Information Security Officer at Trivigil, for an eye-opening conversation that every parent, educator, and technologist needs to hear. Together, they delve into the escalating dangers children face online - from the alarming rise of cyber predators and social media manipulation, to the misuse of AI and increasingly sophisticated scams targeting families.

John shares powerful stories from his work with educational institutions and law enforcement, highlighting how digital threats are evolving far faster than most parents can keep up with. Aaron reflects on personal challenges as a parent navigating device safety and digital boundaries, and the two discuss practical strategies for protecting kids in today’s hyper-connected world.

This episode doesn’t just explore the risks - it offers hope and tangible action, including details about cybersecurity education initiatives like the MASK Next Gen Shield game, designed to give kids and parents the knowledge they need to stay safe online. Whether you’re a concerned parent, a teacher, or someone working in the cybersecurity field, this discussion is packed with real-world advice and resources you can use right now.

Tune in for a timely conversation on the front lines of digital safety—and learn why, when it comes to protecting our kids, awareness and action are more important than ever.

Key Moments:

05:00 Digital Image Blacklist Management

08:08 Parental Cybersecurity and Tech Awareness

10:06 Fake Arrest Warrant Scam Alert

13:27 AI Development Concerns and Future

21:13 Online Predator Alert & Teen Safety

25:33 Limits of Facebook Moderation

27:29 Managing Digital Challenges for Parents

30:46 Teen Sextortion Crisis Emerges

33:44 "Saving Kids Amidst Social Media"

42:23 Broken Graphics Card Issue Resolved

45:33 Internet Safety Tips for Parents

49:43 Pause Before Reacting

51:17 Future Concerns and Optimism

56:46 "Essential Curriculum for Schools"

About the guest :

John Schimanski Jr. brings more than three decades of experience in physical and cybersecurity, spanning private and public sectors. Beginning his career in 1994, he worked as a physical security specialist protecting super-regional shopping centers in high-crime areas, focusing on stolen vehicles and safety operations. During this time, he earned two master’s degrees—one in Criminal Justice and Security Administration and another in Managing Information Systems—along with a bachelor’s in Business Administration.

He transitioned into cybersecurity in 2007, when ransomware was still a $5,000 payment on a green dot credit card. While working in a small data center, he developed customized web services and interfaces for organizations such as the Las Vegas Motor Speedway and Electric Daisy Carnival (EDC).

After building deep experience in the private sector, John moved into public service with the Texas Comptroller of Public Accounts and later served as Deputy CISO for the Texas Department of Criminal Justice. These roles gave him extensive insight into securing critical state systems and navigating the complex challenges of public-sector cybersecurity.

Today, John serves at Trivigil, a cybersecurity firm focused on strengthening the cyber posture of K-12 schools and universities. His career reflects a unique blend of front-line physical security, technical expertise, and leadership across sectors—making him a trusted advisor and advocate for strong, resilient security practices.

Links to connect John :

LinkedIn : https://www.linkedin.com/in/johnschimanski/

Link to October Event - Mask Nectgen - https://s14tu.share-na2.hsforms.com/2K3tpMqlmQ8SR_cGWXsitSw

Connect With Aaron Crow: