LAHORE: With internet penetration continuing to grow in Pakistan and children accessing digital platforms at increasingly younger ages, online safety is becoming a growing concern for families.
Research by Kaspersky highlights a shift in children’s online behaviour, with rising interest in artificial intelligence tools alongside social media, streaming, sports and gaming platforms. The findings highlight the importance of parents understanding what captures children’s attention online, including their searches, preferred platforms and emerging digital trends.
The study, based on anonymised global and Pakistan-specific data from Kaspersky Safe Kids covering January and February 2026, found strong interest among children in AI tools. AI-related apps and services accounted for around a quarter of all Google searches, reflecting growing engagement with AI-driven platforms.
Tools such as ChatGPT, Gemini, Character[dot]AI, Microsoft Copilot, Grok and DeepSeek ranked among the most searched services, indicating the increasing integration of AI into children’s daily digital experiences in Pakistan.
Communication-related searches ranked second overall, driven largely by platforms such as Instagram, TikTok and Pinterest, followed by video streaming services led by YouTube and Netflix.
YouTube remained the leading content platform for children, accounting for nearly one-third of total app usage among children in Pakistan, consistent with broader global trends. Instagram and WhatsApp were the second and third most popular applications in the country.
Music dominated YouTube search trends, supported by interest in cartoons and online content creators. Sports content also attracted significant attention, reflecting children’s interest in major sporting events.
To help improve children’s digital safety and encourage healthier online habits, Kaspersky recommended that parents maintain open communication with children about online risks and establish clear safety guidelines. The company also advised the use of trusted security solutions to reduce the risk of malicious downloads and suggested digital parenting applications to manage screen time, block inappropriate content and monitor children’s online activity.
