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Article History

Accepted: 15 April 2026

First Online: 28 April 2026

Declarations

:

: The South Sudan National Communication Authority (NCA), which oversees all telecommunication activities in the country and includes a Computer Emergency Response Team (CERT) for internet user protection, approved this study. Given the study's focus on enhancing online child security in the capital, with potential nationwide implications, the NCA issued clearance under reference number MTN/CEO/GK/MM/250923. Despite Sudan lacking data protection legislation, we adhered to the Malabo Convention and AU Data Policy Framework regulations. For interviewing children and adolescents in Juba, South Sudan, we obtained parental/caregiver consent and child assent, allowing participants to terminate the interview anytime if uncomfortable. To minimise risk, a social worker reviewed the data collection tool for child-friendliness. We also developed a distress protocol based on recommendations from ethics boards in other African countries where the same study was conducted. However, it was unnecessary as no participant experienced distress during the study.

: On behalf of all authors, the corresponding author states that there is no conflict of interest.