Call for parents to teach online privacy like road safety

Call for Parents to Teach Online Privacy Like Road Safety

The UK’s data watchdog has urged parents to treat online privacy as a crucial life skill, comparable to teaching children about road safety or stranger danger. This recommendation follows a study by the Information Commissioner’s Office (ICO), which revealed that 75% of parents expressed concern about their children’s ability to make safe decisions regarding personal data online.

In response to the findings, the ICO has launched a campaign encouraging families to have basic conversations about protecting sensitive information. The initiative highlights that online privacy is one of the least frequently discussed topics in digital safety education. This push comes as worries about the effects of social media and technology on children’s mental health, security, and growth continue to rise.

“Many families lack guidance on how to communicate about online privacy with their children,” said Emily Keaney, deputy commissioner at the ICO. “It requires a collective effort from society to ensure these discussions are prioritized.”

The research, which surveyed 1,000 UK parents of children aged four to 11, found that 35% believed their child would trade personal details for virtual rewards or game items. Additionally, 22% of children had shared health data with AI tools, while 24% had disclosed their real name or address online. The study identified 8- and 9-year-olds as the most vulnerable age group.

Justine Roberts, founder of Mumsnet, noted that while parents often address issues like harmful content or screen time, privacy is frequently neglected. “As concerns grow over how children’s data is used online, families seek clear, actionable advice to begin these conversations confidently,” she added.

Survey results from February indicated that 21% of parents had never discussed online privacy with their children, and 38% did so less than once a month. In contrast, 90% of respondents reported having talked about screen time in the past month. The ICO outlined that online privacy encompasses details such as names, ages, addresses, photos, browsing history, voice recordings, and online activities on platforms like social media and games.

“We often react after the fact, which is why it’s vital for parents to start early conversations about online risks,” stated Dame Rachel de Souza, children’s commissioner for England. “This helps children understand how to handle discomfort or potential threats while using digital tools.”