FAQ - What personal information should my child never share online
Keeping personal information private is one of the most important rules for staying safe online. Children may not always recognise when they are being asked for sensitive details, especially in games, chats, or on social media where interactions can feel friendly and harmless.
What should never be shared?
Children should be taught to never share personal information that could identify them in real life, including:
Why is this important?
People online are not always who they say they are. Someone may pretend to be a child, a friend, or a trusted person to gain information. What feels like a normal conversation can quickly become risky if personal details are shared.
Teaching children to protect their information helps prevent:
“But they seemed nice…”One of the biggest challenges is that unsafe situations don’t always feel unsafe. Children might be chatting with someone who seems kind, funny, or supportive. This is why it’s important to emphasise that rules apply in all situations - even with people who seem friendly.
A simple rule to remember:
If you wouldn’t tell a stranger in real life, don’t share it online.
How parents can help
Building safe habits
Online safety isn’t about fear - it’s about confidence. When children understand what information is private and why, they are better equipped to make safe choices on their own.
By reinforcing these habits early, you help your child enjoy the online world while staying protected.
What should never be shared?
Children should be taught to never share personal information that could identify them in real life, including:
- Full name
- Home address
- Phone number
- School name or location
- Passwords or login details
- Photos that reveal location (e.g. school uniform, street signs)
- Any information about their daily routines (like where they go after school)
Why is this important?
People online are not always who they say they are. Someone may pretend to be a child, a friend, or a trusted person to gain information. What feels like a normal conversation can quickly become risky if personal details are shared.
Teaching children to protect their information helps prevent:
- Identity theft
- Online grooming
- Scams or fraud
- Unwanted contact offline
“But they seemed nice…”One of the biggest challenges is that unsafe situations don’t always feel unsafe. Children might be chatting with someone who seems kind, funny, or supportive. This is why it’s important to emphasise that rules apply in all situations - even with people who seem friendly.
A simple rule to remember:
If you wouldn’t tell a stranger in real life, don’t share it online.
How parents can help
- Have regular conversations about what personal information is and why it matters
- Use real examples from games or apps your child uses
- Agree clear rules about what can and cannot be shared
- Encourage openness, so your child feels comfortable asking if they’re unsure
Building safe habits
Online safety isn’t about fear - it’s about confidence. When children understand what information is private and why, they are better equipped to make safe choices on their own.
By reinforcing these habits early, you help your child enjoy the online world while staying protected.
