Online privacy

Privacy means something different to children who have grown up online. In fact, many children have an online presence that is documented even before they are born due to their parents’ use of social media, web forums, blogs, etc. Most social media sites require users to be at least 13 years old, but other platforms, such as some online games, also allow younger children to use chat features in the game or app. There is some information that is generally okay for kids to share, such as information about their hobbies and interests, and, when they are older (and with permission), pictures of family and friends.

Information that should not be shared includes, but is not limited to: passwords, location, home/school addresses, school name, and phone number. Children who have shared the type of personal information noted above have been shown to be more susceptible to online scams and identity theft . Data from the National Center for Missing & Exploited Children also notes that individuals who engage in online sexual exploitation or extortion of children often develop a rapport with children through compliments, “shared interests,” and “liking” their online posts as part of the grooming process.