Sharenting (a combination of "share" and "parenting") is the phenomenon where parents frequently post photos, videos, health information, or daily life updates about their children on social media platforms. While many parents make these posts out of love, pride, and the desire to create a digital memory album, considering the concept of the digital footprint, this seemingly innocent action can lead to serious psychological and security problems.

Why is Sharenting a Serious Privacy Issue?

The moment children's photos and personal information are uploaded to the internet, parents lose control over them. This data can remain on servers for years, be copied by malicious individuals, and be used out of context for identity theft or digital exploitation. Moreover, sharenting is not just a security issue; it is a violation of the child's right to privacy. Creating a massive online profile for a child before they are old enough to decide how their digital identity should be shaped is a major ethical debate.

Questions to Ask Yourself Before Posting on Social Media

As part of responsible digital parenting, put any content related to your child through this filter before sharing:

• Will this photo embarrass my child when they reach adolescence or adulthood?
• Does the image reveal their school, home address, exact location, or private moments involving nudity?
• Could this content negatively impact my child's future academic or professional life?
• Does everyone (or hundreds of followers) really need to see this post, or can I send it privately only to close family members?

Tips for Safe and Healthy Sharing (Avoiding Over-sharenting)

Parents are not expected to completely eliminate social media from their lives, but a safer path can be followed:

• Hide or Obscure the Face: Prefer sharing aesthetic shots where your child's face is not fully identifiable, their back is turned, or details are unclear.
• Turn Off Location Tags: Strictly avoid live location tags (check-ins) that indicate exactly where your child is at that moment.
• Develop a Habit of Consent: When your child is old enough to speak and understand, always ask for their permission before taking and sharing their photo. Asking, "Can I share this on the internet where your aunt can see it?" instills a sense of bodily autonomy and boundaries in the child.

Remember; children are not just beings to be protected in the digital world, but individuals with fundamental digital rights that must be respected.