Back to school safety

What is Sharenting, and how does this term play into our Back to School messaging? Sharenting is a common term used to describe the increased online sharing of personal information from parents surrounding their children. Though this messaging is important all year around, we are sharing this important information as kids get ready for the 2023/2024 school year.

The first day back to school is an exciting time for all parents and children/youth, and celebrations of these milestones often happen through online posts via various social media platforms. Rimmi Purewal, Coordinator of the Mission Crime Prevention Office said "we would like to encourage all parents and youth to refrain from sharing too much information online, as it poses a risk of the photographs and information being accessible to online predators." Here are some quick tips on how you can keep personal information protected, but still celebrate:

• Avoid posting your child’s full name, age, height, weight, etc.
• Avoid posting your child’s school name, teachers name, and/or division
• Refrain from posting their favourite food, color, activities
• When sharing online, ensure your privacy options are set for Friends Only, at the very least and;
• If possible, refrain from sharing your child’s photograph online (use the blurring tool…it works great!)

Though our intentions are never to bring any negativity to our children, parents are being encouraged to consider the consequences of divulging too much information online about their children. Let’s be extra diligent with keeping personal information safe from online predators / scammers who are looking to endanger your family and finances.

We wish you all a great start to your 2023/2024 school year!

For more safety tips visit: BC RCMP - Safety tips (rcmp-grc.gc.ca)