EASTERN SHORE, Md. — The first day of school on Delmarva brings the familiar sight of smiling students posing for photos on porches, sidewalks, and bus stops. While many families rush to share these proud moments online, digital safety experts are urging parents to think carefully before posting too many details. Information such as a child’s full name, grade, or school may seem harmless, but online it can increase the risk of identity theft or unwanted contact. Even something as simple as a visible school logo, bus number, or house number in the background can reveal more than parents intend. Small communities on the Shore are especially vulnerable because posts spread quickly through active social networks. Even private accounts can’t always prevent photos from being shared, saved, or screenshot by others.
Experts recommend that parents keep posts as general as possible, using only first names or nicknames and steering clear of images that show school names, addresses, or other identifiers. Adjusting privacy settings and limiting the audience of back-to-school posts can also help, while sharing pictures directly with close family through text or private albums offers another safe alternative. The back-to-school season also provides an opportunity for families to talk with children about online privacy. Teaching kids early to be cautious with personal information can help them build safe digital habits in an increasingly connected world. By balancing tradition with caution, Delmarva families can continue to enjoy their back-to-school rituals while keeping children’s privacy secure.
