Social media makes it easy to share photos of your children with friends and family around the world. If you’re thinking about sharing a photo of your child online Netsafe has some tips about how to do so safely:

1. Look ahead
It's worth taking some time to think about the digital footprint you are creating for your child by posting images or other content about them online. Think about how your child might feel about the content you're sharing once they're older and how it may affect their future.

2. Ask for permission
Does the photo you're about to post include other people's children? It's best if you ask their parents for permission before you post a photo online. If your children are old enough consider asking them if they're ok for you to share it before you post a photo as well.

3. Check your privacy settings
If you're thinking about sharing a photo of your child on social media it's important that you first check what privacy settings you have set up. Some social media networks default to public or more open privacy settings when you sign up so make sure what you're posting can only be seen by the people you'd like to see it.

4. Think about who you've got in your friend network
A lot of people have social media networks that include people they aren't close to anymore. Make sure you are happy with everyone in your social media friend network seeing the photo - if you're not sure or if you'd prefer to share it only with a smaller group consider setting up a private social network group with friends and family or a group chat.

5. Is there any personal information in the picture?
Before you hit post, have another close look at the photo to make sure you're not revealing any personal information about yourself or your child. Some things to look out for include: the name of your child's school, your road or house number or any other personal or private information.

For more information on keeping children safe online visit netsafe.org.nz