10 Ways to Help Protect Your Child’s Online Reputation

Bunting explains that ‘content, contact and conduct’ feed into a child’s online reputation.

“What content are they posting? How does it make others feel? A good general rule when it comes to content is the T-shirt test -if you wouldn’t wear it on a T-shirt, then don’t post it online.

“Who are they in contact with? Are they sharing publicly or are they communicating with just their friends in private groups? If they’re sharing ‘in’ jokes on an open site, do they run the risk that what they’re saying may be misinterpreted?

“And finally, how are they communicating? Are they conducting themselves positively and do they help support their friends online or do their posts run the risk of being deemed offensive or potential bullying?”

Bunting says parents should be aware of the pressures surrounding getting a mobile phone for the first time, and that children need to be taught to use it safely and responsibly. She says parents should have regular and honest conversations about what their child is getting up to online and help them think critically about their online reputation and how they may be perceived online.

She adds: “Stress the importance of how schools and employers can find anything online and how a spur of the moment decision could impact them in later life.”

Internet Matters suggests these tips to help children manage their online reputation:

Review children’s privacy settings on the platforms they use to make sure they stay in control of who has access to what they share. It’s important to make the point that if it’s online there’s the potential the world could see it, so thinking before posting is key.

Encourage children not to hide behind anonymity online and be tempted to say or do things they shouldn’t. Use examples to highlight the power of being real online and developing their passions to create a positive digital footprint. Photo sharing sites can put pressure on young people to appear perfect, causing unrealistic expectations.