No matter how much we try to limit our kids’ screen time, it’s almost impossible to keep children and teens away from the tablets and smartphones they use for school, game-playing and socializing with friends.

That’s why parents need to remain vigilant about protecting kids from risky behaviors online, says Nathan McLaren, special agent in charge of the Iowa Internet Crimes Against Children (ICAC) Task Force at the Iowa Division of Criminal Investigation.

Open communication between parents and children about internet safety is essential to protect kids now and in the future as they grow into adults, McLaren says.

“There are people out there (online)...