This article was brought to us by Legacy Online School website
When sharing holiday pictures in today’s online environment, posters should be more careful with what they share and who they share it with, expert says
Key Points:
- Certain types of photos put your children at risk and should only be reserved for immediate family, says child safety expert
- Malicious actors can use these types of photos to their advantage, especially during the holidays
- Expert shares which photos to avoid taking and how to share great photos in a safe and secure manner
The rise of social media has dramatically influenced how we share and document important moments in our lives, including holidays like Christmas. However, with the increased use of social media also comes the need to be mindful of what we post, especially when it involves our children.
It’s easy to forget how vast the internet really is and how easily it can be manipulated. The only surefire way to avoid this is never to be online, but that’s simply not feasible these days. “Parents are faced with the challenge of protecting their children from what may be out there, which is something no parent has ever had to deal with before the internet,” says Vasilii Kiselev, CEO and co-founder of Legacy Online School.
Finding the balance between safety while still enjoying online sharing features is the key. There are a few things to be aware of that, if addressed, will protect your family and allow you to show off your holiday spirit.
Here, Vasilii outlines the types of photos you should avoid and provides advice on how to take safe and memorable pictures.
Photos Showing Identifiable Locations
Posting a photo of your kids in front of their school or home during the holiday season may seem harmless, but this can make them easily locatable to strangers. Avoid sharing photos that reveal specific details of the location, especially if it’s a frequently visited place.
Expert’s Advice: Vasilii suggests, “Consider creating a separate social media account solely for sharing photos of your children with close family and friends. Don’t use discoverable language like hashtags or geotags that reveal personal information.”
Shots Showing Personal Identifiers
Close-up photos that reveal names on clothing or tags, monogrammed items, or even personalized backpacks. This also includes photos that show your child’s other personal information, such as their school or team affiliations. This information can be used to identify your child without your consent.
Expert’s Advice: “If you do notice a personal identifier, you can always censor it through photo editing. But be wary of this technique as it’s not as safe as just re-taking the photo without any personal identifier at all,” warns Vasilii.
Photos That Violate Someone Else’s Privacy
When sharing photos of your children, be mindful of others who may be in the background. Ask for their permission before posting a picture they are in. This especially applies to photos taken at gatherings such as Christmas parties with other children present. Always respect the privacy of others if you plan to share the photos you’re taking.
Expert’s Advice: “Many people think that because they are okay with sharing their lives online, everyone is okay with it. But this is far from the truth, especially when it comes to someone’s child. Be mindful of the world we live in now, and don’t hesitate to ask questions respectfully; it’s much less intrusive than the alternative,” says Vasilii.
Shots of Personal Candid Moments
Photos should be contrived and demonstrate a certain level of preparation and awareness. Candid photos taken at home during Christmas morning, bedtime, or playtime should not be posted for the world to see. These photos are for personal reflection and should mean nothing to others, so posting them would only have negative results.
*Expert’s Advice: “Be mindful of your child’s clothing if you plan to post these types of photos. Ensure they are appropriately dressed for public viewing despite the casual nature that the image may display,” suggests Vasilii.
Vasilii Kiselev, CEO and Co-founder of Legacy Online School commented:
“We must always think twice before posting photos of our children online, especially during the holiday season. It may seem harmless, but it is vital to consider the potential consequences and risks of sharing too much personal information on social media.
“Let’s make it more common to have open and honest conversations with our children about their online presence and privacy and to set boundaries for what is and isn’t appropriate to share on social media. It’s our responsibility to be mindful of what we post and to prioritize our children’s safety above the need for likes and shares on social media.”
About Legacy Online SchoolLegacy Online School provides a high-quality, flexible, and accredited online education for students from Kindergarten through 12th grade. Their curriculum is designed to foster academic excellence and personal growth, allowing students to learn at their own pace.
With a team of experienced educators, Legacy Online School combines interactive digital tools with personalized support, ensuring each student’s success. The school emphasizes a well-rounded education, including extracurricular activities and college prep guidance, to prepare students for future endeavors.
This article was brought to us by Legacy Online School website
Thank you,
Glenda, Charlie and David Cates
