How to safeguard your child's privacy on social media

When it comes to responsible digital parenting, drawing the line between sharing memories and compromising your child's safety can be challenging. As parents navigate the complexities of social media, it is crucial to understand the potential risks involved in sharing personal information about children online. This article outlines essential guidelines for protecting your child's privacy while still enjoying the benefits of digital sharing.

The risks of oversharing

According to Kaspersky’s “Growing Up Online” research, nearly half (47%) of South African parents share pictures or videos of their children on social media. Alarmingly, 29% of these parents also disclose additional personal information, such as their child's name (32%), geolocation (31%), or stories from their child's life (50%). Furthermore, 18% of parents share this information without any privacy restrictions on their accounts, exposing their children to potential risks from strangers who could misuse this information.

While many parents post their children's photos and videos with good intentions—such as preserving memories (76%), celebrating achievements (50%), or sharing updates with family and friends (23%)—they often underestimate the associated risks in cyberspace.

Understanding the consequences

“It is difficult to determine the line between sharing information that is safe and compromising a child's safety. However, it is essential to resist the urge to share too much online, as this can put children's safety and privacy at risk,” explains Kim Grobbelaar, Consumer Channel Manager in the Middle East and Africa at Kaspersky.

Sharing personal details with strangers can expose children to identity theft, stalking, and exploitation. Additionally, it can affect a child’s digital footprint, potentially leading to embarrassment, bullying, or reputational harm later in life. As children grow older, they may feel a loss of control or resentment about their online presence.

Essential guidelines for safe sharing

To safeguard your child’s data and ensure safe sharing, Kaspersky recommends the following advice:

1. Limit Access: Make your social media profiles visible to friends only. Be mindful of who you add to your friends list—only include people you know personally.

2. Enhance Security: Enable general safety settings, such as two-factor authentication on Instagram and use a secure password.

3. Think Before You Share: Avoid posting materials that could harm your child, including personal photos, videos, or sensitive information such as your child's school name or contact details.

4. Consider Security Solutions: Explore reliable security options like Kaspersky Premium, which incorporates the Kaspersky Safe Kids module to help guard family members and private data.

By following these guidelines, parents can enjoy the benefits of social media while ensuring their children’s safety and privacy are protected.