Think Twice Before Sharing That Photo: How Malaysian Parents Are Protecting Their Kids Online

The topic of ‘sharenting’ isn’t new.

It’s been debated countless times before.

Yet, in today’s hyper connected digital age, its importance has only grown, making it a conversation worth revisiting.

From a baby’s first steps to their super cute super messy 1st smash cake birthday moments, sharing milestones online has become second nature for many parents (yes, myself included).

It’s a way to connect, celebrate, and treasure precious memories.

But in this digital age, where information travels faster than ever, the line between sharing and oversharing can blur and that’s where the challenge lies.

The Unavoidable Era of Sharenting

It’s almost unavoidable.

Whether you’re a parent who loves sharing daily snapshots or someone who occasionally posts about your child’s milestones, social media has become a digital scrapbook for many families, a space to celebrate memories and stay connected with loved ones, especially those far away.

However, in Malaysia, an increasing number of parents are rethinking their approach to sharing.

Concerns about privacy, safety, and cultural sensitivities are leading to more intentional practices.

From blurring children’s faces to posting only partial glimpses like little hands holding a toy or a candid shot from behind, parents are finding creative ways to preserve their child’s privacy.

Some content creators even opt for completely faceless accounts to curate their content.

This isn’t just a passing trend,

It’s a conscious effort to safeguard children’s digital identities in a world that’s becoming more connected every day.

Why Are Parents Becoming More Cautious?

1. Digital Security Concerns: The internet is an endless pit hole of unpredictability. Parents are increasingly worried about their child’s images being misused, whether through identity theft, unauthorised use in advertisements, or falling into the wrong hands.
2. Privacy Awareness: As social media platforms evolve, so does awareness about privacy. Parents are recognising that what they post today could have implications for their child’s future, from school applications to professional careers. Nobody wants their child’s embarrassing bathtub photo resurfacing years later.
3. Cultural Sensitivities: In Malaysia’s multicultural society, the way we approach privacy can differ, but a shared emphasis on modesty and respect plays a significant role. This cultural perspective influences decisions like blurring faces or avoiding sharing too much personal information about children.
4. Protecting Autonomy: Children are now treated as individuals with their own rights, including the right to decide how they’re represented online. Some parents are holding back on sharenting to let their kids grow up and make those decisions themselves.

Navigating the Balance: Sharing Responsibly

So how do we, as parents, strike a balance?

How can we share moments without compromising our children’s safety or privacy?

Here are a few practical tips to navigate sharenting in the digital age:

1. Think Before You Post: Ask yourself a few key questions: Does this post reveal too much? Could this embarrass my child in the future? Am I oversharing personal details? Taking a moment to pause and reflect can make all the difference.
2. Limit Identifiable Details: Avoid posting information that could identify your child’s current location or daily routine. For instance, skip tagging their school or sharing photos in recognisable uniforms.
3. Blur Faces or Share Partial Shots: If you’re keen to share a moment, consider showing only hands, feet, or the back of your child’s head. This will still let you share the essence of the moment while safeguarding their identity.
4. Check Privacy Settings: Ensure your social media accounts are set to private and only trusted friends and family can see your posts. Regularly review your follower list to ensure it’s up to date.
5. Have Open Conversations: As your child grows, involve them in the decision making process. Ask if they’re comfortable with you sharing a photo or story about them. This helps them understand their rights to privacy early on.
6. Create a Family Album: Instead of sharing every moment online, consider creating a private digital archive or photo album. This allows you to document your child’s milestones without exposing them to the public eye.

Protecting Our Children: A Shared Responsibility