Back to school pictures are a time-honoured tradition and must-do for many parents, but as new trends emerge, Alberta RCMP are warning parents to be mindful of the information they share about their child while marking the occasion.
In recent years, in has become increasingly popular for parents to post photos of their kids on social media holding chalkboards and whiteboards outlining fun facts and details about them. Information often includes the child’s name, age, school, grade, favourite colour or activity, and more.
While the intentions behind these posts are innocent, RCMP are warning that sharing such personal details can put the safety and privacy of kids at risk.
The personal information often included in these photos can be used by individuals to identify, find and build a false sense of trust or security with a child, according to RCMP. A stranger could approach a youth, list their personal details and claim they know their parents or are a trustworthy adult, when it is in fact untrue.
To avoid this, parents are asked not to post pictures of their child that include the name of their school, take photos outside undisclosed locations with no visible markers or addresses and avoid posting specific details about the child, instead writing "First Day of School."
If one chooses to post photos of their child, online privacy settings should be adjusted to maximize security.
Parents are encouraged to have discussions with their kids about online safety, including stranger danger, and consider creating safety plans with them that establish safe words and identify trusted adults. Parental monitor software or parental security settings are recommended for children's social media accounts.
Kids and teens should not give out personal information online or share details about themselves, including last name, address or school, on their social media profiles.
Have a parent review photos and videos before posting them online and report any uncomfortable online activity or interaction to a trusted adult.
For additional information and Internet safety resources, visit the RCMP website.
