What is online privacy?

Online privacy is about people having the ability to control and choose what personal information is collected, used, and shared when online.

The internet can be an amazing place for children to learn, play and connect but we also want them to know how to stay safe. This includes knowing how to protect their personal information and take control of their digital footprint.​

Personal information includes their name, age, and where they live. It’s also less obvious information like their browsing history, purchases, photos, voice notes and social media or gaming activity.​

When your child uses websites, apps or mobile games, information is collected about their interests, habits, and even their location. If they click ‘like’,  ‘accept’, or ’sign up’, they may be giving away more about themselves than they realise. This can include things like their mood, friendships, and even the time they wake up and go to bed.​

And it’s not just companies, sometimes other people can use your child’s personal information without you knowing. For example, people can use the information we share in our social media profiles to work out our passwords or even find out where we live. ​

Even if you manage what your child sees and does online, it’s still important they learn the skills to make smart choices about their privacy for the future.​

Helping your child with online privacy starts with our simple, three-step checklist​

• Chat with your child about online privacy.​
• Choose actively what personal information to share.​
• Check the settings whenever your child uses a new device or app.​