The internet is flooded with images and videos of children. From first steps to school photos, parents share milestones online with pride. But a growing number of parents are choosing not to participate, quietly opting out of what’s known as “sharenting” – the act of oversharing about children online. Why? Because once a photo, video, or personal detail goes public, it’s beyond their control. In an age where most Americans use the internet, posting about a child is akin to sharing that information with the entire world.
The Risks of Digital Exposure
The decision not to post isn’t about resisting the urge to brag; it’s about recognizing the very real dangers that come with a permanent digital footprint. Experts warn that even well-intentioned posts can compromise a child’s privacy in ways that parents don’t always realize.
According to a 2024 study, roughly 75% of parents share content related to their children online. But the practice goes far beyond simple pride. It can lead to identity theft, psychological harm, and even exploitation.
AI and the New Threat Landscape
One of the most alarming risks is the rise of artificial intelligence (AI) and deepfakes. User-friendly tools can now create realistic fake images and videos in seconds, and the more content available online, the easier it becomes for malicious actors to exploit it. The National Center for Missing & Exploited Children warns that AI-generated child sexual abuse material is a growing concern, and deepfakes can inflict lasting trauma on victims.
Psychological harm is another key danger. Teens may face bullying, shame, or pressure to live up to an idealized online persona created by their parents. Identity theft can also ruin a child’s financial future, making it harder to secure loans or even rent an apartment later in life.
The Alternatives: Privacy First
For those who value their children’s privacy, the most effective solution is simple: don’t post. Some parents, like CNET colleague Attila Tomaschek, refuse to risk their child’s information being exposed. “It’s my responsibility to establish the proper guardrails to protect her privacy and safety from being put at risk online,” Tomaschek says.
If sharing is unavoidable, there are safer ways. Sending photos directly through encrypted messaging apps like Signal or Telegram limits exposure. Adjusting social media settings to restrict who can see posts can help, but platforms still retain a license to use that content commercially.
Ultimately, the decision to share (or not share) is a personal one. But for an increasing number of parents, the risks simply outweigh the rewards.
The safest approach is to treat a child’s digital privacy with the same seriousness as their physical safety. The internet doesn’t forget, and a child’s future self may not thank you for sharing their life with strangers.
