Cybersecurity experts have warned Pakistani parents and young internet users about growing online threats linked to social media, multiplayer gaming platforms and emerging artificial intelligence technologies.
Kaspersky analysed the digital interests and online activity of children across the META region, including Pakistan, during the first eight months of 2026. The research identified the most popular websites and mobile applications used by children, while also highlighting potential cybersecurity risks associated with these platforms.
YouTube emerged as the most popular mobile application among children in Pakistan, accounting for 31.2% of activity, followed by Instagram at 18.8% and WhatsApp at 17.4%. Facebook represented 10.8%, while TikTok ranked fifth with 5.7%.
Multiplayer gaming platforms also featured prominently among the most visited online resources. Roblox was among the popular services accessed by children on smartphones and computers, while Discord was also widely used on desktop devices.
Cybersecurity experts caution that gaming and communication platforms can expose children to malicious actors because they allow direct interaction with strangers. This can increase the risk of scams, inappropriate content, cyberbullying and other online threats.
The rapid growth of generative AI is adding another layer of concern. Experts have highlighted the increasing misuse of deepfakes in cyberbullying, with photos and videos shared online potentially being manipulated into fabricated or misleading content.
The findings underline the need for greater digital awareness, parental supervision and stronger online safety measures to help protect children as they spend more time on social media, gaming platforms and AI-powered services.
