Summary
Researchers warn that "sharenting," which is when parents post photos and information about their children online, can put kids at risk of identity theft and cyber-crime. A study from the University of Southampton found that many parents are not aware of the risks, including how online content can still be shared beyond privacy settings. The study highlights concerns about how shared information could lead to future harm for children.
Key Facts
- "Sharenting" involves parents sharing photos and details about their children on social media.
- Researchers from the University of Southampton studied the risks involved in sharenting.
- The study found that 45% of surveyed parents share their children's photos online.
- Over one-sixth of parents reported that their child had experienced some form of harm due to this sharing.
- Information shared online, like birthdays and addresses, could lead to identity fraud.
- Privacy settings do not fully protect shared content from being spread widely.
- The Internet Watch Foundation notes AI can misuse children's images, posing new risks.
- AI technology can create realistic images, potentially leading to risks such as sexual extortion.
