Why First Day Of School Photos Put Maine Kids At Risk

The pictures with your child holding an info board about their first day of school are cute, but could put your child and your identity at risk.

Info Shared on a Maine School Child's First Day of School Photo Could Tell Too Much

We've all seen the photos of kids holding the first day-of-school information boards.

They often include the child's full name, their age, the grade they're going into, and the school they're attending.

It seems harmless but, like so many things we post online these days, could contain information you don't want to fall into the wrong hands.

Much like the advisory given a few years ago about adults sharing their high school graduation pictures, BBB officials say information about your kids' school on social media is valuable to identity thieves.

Personal and School Info on Back to School Pics in Maine Could Tell Too Much

Posting the name of the school could help predators gain their trust by claiming to be from the same school.

In addition, it could help hackers figure out answers to the security questions for your financial sites.

Personal details like your child's age, address, and even their teacher's name could also be used by online predators to get close to your child.

Mainer's Advised That Back to School Pics are Great, Just Leave Out the Info

Sharing photos of your child's first day of school is fine, but it's important to check the privacy settings and consider limiting the audience to family and close friends.

Forget the sign of information and, instead, consider a generic picture that says something non-specific like 'First Day Back to School.'

It's something to celebrate, but just do it in a way that keeps everyone safe.