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 emphasized that parents should treat online privacy education as a vital life skill, comparable to teaching children about stranger danger or road safety. This recommendation follows a study conducted by the Information Commissioner’s Office (ICO), which revealed that 75% of parents worry their child might not make safe choices when sharing personal data online.

The ICO has initiated a campaign encouraging families to engage in straightforward discussions with their children regarding the protection of personal information. The initiative highlights that privacy is often neglected in online safety conversations, despite its critical role in children’s digital wellbeing. This comes as concerns about the influence of social media and technology on young minds continue to rise.

According to the survey, 35% of parents believe their child would trade personal details for game rewards. Additionally, the research found that 22% of children had disclosed health information to AI tools, while 24% shared their real name or address online. The study points to eight and nine-year-olds as the most vulnerable age group.

“Many families lack guidance on how to talk to their children about online privacy,” said Emily Keaney, ICO deputy commissioner. “It requires a collective effort across society to address this issue effectively.”

Justine Roberts, founder of Mumsnet, added that while parents commonly discuss screen time or harmful content, privacy often slips through the cracks. “As awareness grows about how children’s data is used online, families need clear advice to start these conversations confidently,” she noted.

The ICO’s February survey of 1,000 UK parents showed 21% had never addressed online privacy with their child, and 38% discussed it less than once a month. In contrast, 90% of respondents had talked about screen time in the past month. The watchdog defines online privacy as encompassing details like names, ages, addresses, photos, browsing habits, and social media activity.

“We’re often reacting after the fact, which is why it’s essential for parents to have early, regular conversations about online risks,” said Dame Rachel de Souza, children’s commissioner for England. “This helps children understand how to handle discomfort or privacy breaches when they occur.”