Child Identity Fraud from Sharenting Projected to Reach Two-Thirds by 2030, Experts Warn

Concerns are escalating over the digital footprint created by parents sharing their children's lives online, a practice known as "sharenting," with new projections indicating a significant rise in related identity fraud. By 2030, sharenting could account for two-thirds of identity fraud cases involving young people, according to a Barclays study. This alarming trend underscores a growing societal issue where the pursuit of online validation may inadvertently compromise children's safety and privacy.

The issue of parents potentially endangering children for social media engagement has become increasingly believable in the current digital landscape. As noted by Bryan Beal 🎧 on social media, "> A mom risking her 5 year old daughter’s life for Instagram likes is 100% believable in 2025." This sentiment reflects a broader concern among experts and the public about the lengths some parents might go to for online attention. Research from Northumbria University reveals that 80% of children have an online presence by age two, with parents sharing an average of 1,500 images before their fifth birthday.

The extensive digital trails left by sharenting expose children to various risks beyond identity theft, including cyberbullying, online predators, and the potential for future embarrassment. Many photos shared by parents contain sensitive data, increasing concerns about children’s digital safety. Experts advise parents to use strict privacy settings, carefully manage followers, and avoid posting content that could embarrass or invade their children’s privacy later in life.

Social media's impact on children extends to mental health, with potential issues like body image concerns, anxiety, and depression. Dangerous viral trends, often amplified on platforms like TikTok, also pose physical risks as children, lacking fully developed cognitive and executive functioning, may attempt hazardous challenges. The U.S. Surgeon General has highlighted that teens spending over three hours daily on social media double their risk of depression and anxiety.

Parental control apps and open communication are crucial tools for navigating these challenges. Organizations like the American Academy of Pediatrics recommend limiting screen time and creating family media plans. Ultimately, while social media offers avenues for connection, the imperative remains for parents to prioritize their children's long-term safety and well-being over fleeting online validation.