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10 tips for protecting children's privacy online
The IAPP's Women Leading Privacy Advisory Board put together this list of 10 tips for protecting children's privacy online.
Published: June 2025
Contributors:
The IAPP's Women Leading Privacy Section proudly recognizes the remarkable representation of women in privacy roles compared to other professions, highlighting their pivotal contributions to the field.
The members of the IAPP's Women Leading Privacy Advisory Board put together this list of 10 tips for protecting children's privacy online.
10 tips for protecting children's privacy online
1. Think before you share (stop "sharenting")
Be mindful of what you post online about your children. Think about their future privacy and the potential impact of the information you share. Avoid posting information that could reveal their location and routines.
2. Have open conversations about privacy with kids
Make privacy a regular topic. Teach your kids what personal information is and why it is important to protect it. Remind them not to share personal details on any online forums.
3. Understand the apps and platforms they use
Take time to learn about the privacy settings, policies and data collection practices of the apps, games, and social media platforms your children use and adjust the settings to improve privacy.
4. Review connected devices
Be aware of the privacy implications of connected devices. Understand how they collect and use data and ensure appropriate privacy controls are in place. Turn off microphones and cameras when not in use.
5. Be mindful of location sharing
Learn how location services work on your children's devices and discuss when and with whom it is appropriate to share their location. Regularly review app permissions related to location access.
6. Manage cookies and tracking
Explain the basics of cookies, online tracking and profiling. Consider using privacy-focused browsers or browser extensions to limit tracking and enhance online security.
7. Educate about phishing and scams
Teach your child to identify phishing scams and suspicious emails or messages, verify the identity of senders and only engage with trusted online accounts. Avoid unknown links and attachments from unfamiliar sources.
8. Encourage online anonymity
Advise your child to use anonymous usernames and profile pictures that do not reveal their real name or personal details when creating online accounts, wherever possible.
9. Discuss the permanence of online actions
Help your child understand that anything they post online can be permanent, even if they delete it later. Encourage them to think carefully before sharing photos, videos or comments.
10. Stay informed and adapt
The digital landscape is constantly evolving. Stay updated on the latest privacy threats and best practices and be prepared to adjust your approach as your children grow and technology changes.