A recent study by Kaspersky in partnership with the Singapore Institute of Technology reveals that parents who are more confident in handling digital risks are more inclined to safeguard their children’s online privacy. The study focuses on how parents perceive and address the dangers of sharing information about their children on social media. Although sharing such content can foster family connections and document everyday life, it can also expose children to risks like profiling, tracking, and misuse of personal data.
The research, based on 152 responses from parents across Asia and other regions, underscores the significance of “self-efficacy” in influencing behavior towards online threats. Approximately 85% of participants expressed belief in their ability to avoid sharing sensitive information, while 84% claimed they could restrict access to trusted circles. Moreover, around 80% mentioned disabling resharing features, and 78% acknowledged removing metadata from posts. The survey, conducted between mid-October 2025 and February 2026, targeted parents with children up to 12 years old.
The study also identifies variations based on age and gender. Older parents demonstrated more proactive behavior, attributed to their greater experience. Additionally, mothers exhibited higher levels of confidence in safeguarding their children’s digital presence. Despite a relatively high level of awareness, the study emphasizes the ongoing necessity for cybersecurity education and media literacy. It stresses that risks associated with online sharing are often not immediately apparent, as outlined in the press release.