AUGUST 16, 2024 – As we gear up for the new school year, the Department of the Army Criminal Investigation Division-Europe Field Office (CID) and the Department of Defense Educational Activity-Europe want to remind parents to be mindful when sharing back-to-school photos and messages on social media.
While we all love to celebrate and highlight these milestones, it’s important to remember that sharing personal details online can inadvertently put our children at risk.
Ryan Hall, the Special Agent in Charge of the Army CID Europe Field Office, wisely advises, “In today’s digital age, privacy is precious, especially for our children. Let’s be vigilant in protecting their information.”
Dr. Michelle Howard Brahaney, Director for Student Excellence at DoDEA Europe, stresses the importance of educating families about online risks.
She says, “Our common goal is to ensure the safety and well-being of our students. While living abroad fosters global connectivity with loved ones, it’s essential to prioritize safety measures and staying informed as the digital world evolves and risks increase.”
As families prepare for the new school year, we understand there are mixed emotions and the desire to share this important milestone.
Its however important to be cautious about the information we share online to protect our children’s safety.
Here are some helpful tips:
- Avoid sharing personal details, like school name, teacher name, or grade level.
- Refrain from posting images that reveal your house number, street name, school name, bus stop location, or easily identifiable buildings or landmarks.
- Take the time to review privacy and access settings on all your social media accounts.
- Be mindful of unsolicited friend/stranger requests and be wary of potential hoax accounts.
- Have open conversations with your children about online safety and encourage them to talk to you about any concerning encounters.
Courtesy Story
Department of Defense Education Activity Europe