As a parent are you aware of the dangers of Instagram, and how to keep your children safe? Instagram is becoming a huge trend within preteens and teenagers today. It is critically important to be tuned into to the latest technology trends. Instagram can contain varieties of different risks to your children, such as, profanity, cyber-bullying, inappropriate pictures, and hate mail. Parents need to take the time to learn the different social media ins and outs to protect your children, because let’s be honest, social media isn’t going away. Here’s a few ideas on how to keep your child safe!
- CHECK WHO YOUR CHILD IS FOLLOWING & WHO FOLLOWS THEM
Parents, it is your right to know what your child is doing on social media. A stranger can follow your child on Instagram, and your child doesn’t have to follow them back. The stranger then has access to all your child’s photos, and can direct message them.
- SET YOUR CHILD’S PROFILE TO PRIVATE
Instagram can be public or private. When a profile is set to public, anyone can follow your child and have access to your children’s profile. If a profile is set to private, you personally have to accept someone’s request to follow you.
- KNOW WHAT YOUR CHILD IS POSTING
Children can share anything on their Instagram from class schedules, to pictures of friends or family. Some can be harmless, but keeping updated with what your child is posting can keep them safe on the internet.
- HAVE YOUR CHILD TELL YOU THEIR SOCIAL MEDIA PASSWORDS
If at any point you have concerns about what your child is sharing on social media, you can log into their account. Do not allow your child to have a social media account without giving their password to you.