Matthew Mulvaney, associate professor in the Department of Human Development and Family Science at Syracuse University, was interviewed by Syracuse television station WSYR NewsChannel 9 for a segment on Governor Kathy Hochul’s proposed measures to improve online safety for minors.

The NewsChannel 9 report highlighted Hochul’s push for age verification on platforms like Roblox and other chatroom-centered apps to protect children from online predators and scammers. Mulvaney shared his perspective as both a researcher and a parent, noting the challenges families face in managing children’s digital presence.

“Parents can’t understand all the ins and outs of each app their kids are going to be on,” Mulvaney said during the interview.

He emphasized the importance of open communication between parents and children about online interactions, encouraging parents to ask questions such as: “What would happen if someone sent you a text?” or “What would happen if someone sent you inappropriate information or pictures?”

Mulvaney’s insights underscore the need for proactive parental engagement alongside policy changes aimed at creating safer online environments for youth.