"What we know about paedophiles is they find out where kids are and that's precisely where they go, like a bear to honey," Inman Grant told the publication.
"It's a honey pot for predators."
As more online games and social media platforms gain popularity, the risk of children falling victim to predators increases, prompting the eSafety Commission to issue a warning about the types of tech gifts parents plan on giving their children this Christmas.
Inman Grant said internet-connected devices were always a popular gift and, while they could have educational benefits, there were also risks parents needed to consider.
"There's an array of internet-connected technology out there, such as drones, smart toys and wearable devices. They're fun items that most kids want, but we also want parents and carers to be aware of the risks of these internet-connected items, and the precautions they can take," she said.
"For instance, some devices may give away details of your child's location, or there may be apps on smartphones or tablets that have a messaging function you may not know about."
In a bid to educate parents about these dangers, the eSafety Commission has released a gift guide with information about some of the popular tech presents their kids might be asking for this year.
"eSafety's Gift Guide helps to inform parents and carers about what to look out for with tech gifts. It gives practical advice on how you can help keep your kids safe when using tech, such as setting strong passwords, or turning off location settings," Minister for Communications, Cyber Safety and the Arts, Paul Fletcher, said.
How to keep children safe online
• Use parental controls: Parental controls are software tools that allow you to monitor and limit what your child sees and does online. They can be set up to block your child from accessing specific websites, apps or functions, filter different kinds of content -such as "adult" or sexual content – and monitor your child's use of connected devices,
• Set time limits: During non-school hours at home, it's a good idea to establish time limits around when and for how long your child can be online.
• Stay in open areas of the home: Device-free zones in the home can help you monitor and manage who your child interacts with online. Rules could include no devices in the bedroom or bathroom, all screens off an hour before bedtime and devices charged overnight where children cannot access them.
• Know the apps and games your kids are using: Check that apps, games and social media sites are age-appropriate for your child.Look out for messaging or online chat as well as location-sharing within apps, games or social media accounts – these can expose your child to unwanted contact and reveal their physical location.
• Turn on privacy settings: Check the privacy settings on the games and apps your child is using and make sure their profiles are turned on to the strictest privacy setting.
• Co-view and co-play: Engaging in children's online lives is the best way to understand what they are doing online and why they enjoy an app or game.
