Be mindful of what you post online
Before posting a photo of your child, ask yourself: Is this necessary? Is it safe? Once something is shared online, it’s there forever — and in ways you might not expect.
The Threat of AI Profiling
We’re now in an age where artificial intelligence can easily track and analyze data across social media platforms. That adorable picture of your child could be used by unknown third parties to build a detailed profile of them. In the future, what if that picture resurfaces when your child is applying for a job, seeking medical aid, or trying to secure insurance? Their privacy, once compromised, could be permanently affected. This was highlighted recently by a former Google engineer, showing you the shockingly detailed amount Google AI can learn from your photos.
The Hidden Dangers
Even seemingly innocent posts can come with unintended consequences. Your child’s name, location, or personal details — all of which can be pieced together online — could be exploited by malicious actors. For example, AI-powered facial recognition systems are already capable of identifying individuals from shared photos. This increases the risk of cyberstalking, identity theft, and even data harvesting.
What Can You Do?
If possible, avoid sharing your child’s photos or detailed personal information on any public social media platform. Instead, store precious memories (like milestones or first steps) on secure, encrypted cloud storage that only you and trusted family members can access. It’s a small change that can make a world of difference in protecting your child’s future privacy.
Secure your smart cameras
If your child can speak is it necessary to have cameras in a bedroom? Do you know that the IP cameras can be hacked or that the manufacturer that is providing it’s cloud services could have full access to what is happening in your home? If you have a need for cameras inside your home make sure those cameras are set up to be secure (change all the default passwords, for example), preferably not connected to the internet (but rather recording to a DVR in your home), and consider using a VPN (Virtual Private Network) to encrypt the connection when viewing the camera remotely.
Monitor your child’s online activity
Talk to your child about online safety and monitor their activity regularly. Set boundaries and rules for their online behavior, and make sure they know what to do if they encounter something that makes them feel uncomfortable or scared.
You might be surprised to learn that Australia has taken drastic measures to protect young users, even going as far as to ban social media for children under the age of 16. Other countries are considering similar actions as the risks associated with social media and online platforms continue to grow. The truth is, what your child encounters online can shape their mental and emotional well-being, often in ways you can’t immediately see.
Teach your child about online predators
Educate your child about the risks of online predators and how to stay safe online. Teach them to never share personal information with strangers online, and to never meet up with someone they met online without your supervision.
Use parental control software
Consider using parental control software to monitor and control your child’s online activity. These programs can help you block certain websites, set limits on screen time, and monitor your child’s online behavior.
Use privacy settings
Take the time to review and adjust the privacy settings on your social media accounts and cloud storage apps. Make sure you’re not sharing more information than you need to, and consider using third-party apps to help you manage your online presence.
Stay informed
Stay up to date on the latest online safety trends and threats. This will help you stay ahead of potential dangers and keep your child safe online. Follow us on WhatsApp, Facebook or Linked in, or subscribe below to get insights into your data and online safety.
The online world is full of hidden threats, but by making small changes in how you use social media and technology, you can better protect your child’s privacy and safety.