It’s back-to-school season, which means the annual flood of first-day photos on social media.
Parents will be proudly snapping pics of their kids in their school uniforms, ready to take on the new year - but, have you ever thought about just how much personal info you could be putting out there in just one photo?
While it’s a sweet way to capture these milestone moments, NZ Police are waving the red flags that could put you and your family's info in the wrong hands.
“Parents and caregivers should remain cautious about the information that images posted on social media present and who can gain access to them,” NZ Police wrote in a Facebook post.
“While it’s rare for NZ Police to receive reports about children being located through information shared online in photos or videos, we know from our international counterparts that it does happen.”
Honestly, thinking about it, how many of your Facebook friends or Instagram followers you would personally send these snaps to? I'd probably bet less than half - but clearing out those people you haven’t spoken to in years is a convo for another day.
This isn’t just something for parents to think about. High schoolers and uni students need to be careful too when posting their own pics.
Things like school or uni locations, dorm rooms, student IDs, class schedules, or extracurricular activities can expose more than you intend.
NZ Police have a few tips to keep safe:
“Check there are no identifying features such as school uniforms and logos, school buildings or signs, and street signs. This applies if you are taking photos at home as well. If this is unavoidable, parents can edit and blur school logos and signs.”
“Research and understand app settings, including privacy settings. Turning off location settings or setting profiles to private/friends only.”
“Keeping your child’s personal information - including full name and age and what year they’re starting - private.”
“Report any inappropriate or suspicious behaviour online.”
It’s important to remember that the internet is forever, and a little caution can go a long way!
