Mr. Speaker, our children's safety is always a concern for parents, especially when it comes to their interactions on social media. The next generation is growing up in a rapidly-changing technological environment, and although this has the possibility of reward and greater individual potential, not everyone or everything online will have your best interests in mind.

News of the "Momo Challenge" has been making the rounds, reportedly an online phenomenon where people, mainly children, are sent disturbing images on social media and are told to act out until a point of self-harm. Thankfully, this has been debunked as a hoax.

Mr. Speaker, in this ever-increasing complex age, we, as parents, teachers, and even our elders, in regard to our children, must remain eternally vigilant. This is because the Internet and all of the possibilities that come with it have the potential to expand an individual's capacity and ability to network, but it also carries the risk of spreading false, misleading, and truly frightful information. I am glad to hear of some school boards from across the country issuing tips and resources for child safety and parent awareness on social media and on other web-based applications.

Mr. Speaker, when used properly, the Internet is an incredible tool for learning and communication, but our most vulnerable need to know how to be safe online and how to scrutinize the information that they come across. Parents should discuss where online devices are kept at home and when kids are allowed to have access to them.

Mr. Speaker, it is important that all of us who use the Internet practice and hone our hoax detection skills, teach them to our children, and ensure that those who are most vulnerable in our society are aware of the devious tricksters, pranksters, and troubled persons who will try to take advantage without having fully pondered the consequences.

Mr. Speaker, the online world has created an interconnected society like no other in the history of the world. Our children are set to inherit the incredible possibilities of this world, and it is up to us to ensure that they are prepared to be responsible online citizens who know how to keep themselves safe. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.