With employers looking at Facebook and other social media as part of the reference checking process during recruitment these days, it’s important that parents educate children about the dangers of social media – not only the identity theft and cyber bullying issues, but also on the impacts of irresponsible comments.
Recently, a US Congressman was forced to resign over a sex scandal when he was found to have lied about a series of online conversations with women in which he sent lewd photos, including one of him in his underwear. Last year Olympic swimmer, Stephanie Rice was forced to publicly apologise in a tearful press conference and lost a key sponsor after she posted a homophobic message about a rugby player on Twitter.
The main message we need to give to our children is that if you don’t think what you are posting in any social media platform should be plastered across page one of the local paper, then don’t post it. If your grandmother or prospective boss might not be impressed about the images, don’t post them.
According to Common Sense Media, everything your kids do online creates an information trail. “Something that happens on the spur of the moment — a funny photo, an angry post — can resurface years later.” They offer great advice on helping your children manage their personal privacy online, including tips for parents.
