Is 'sharenting' putting your child at risk? Hidden dangers of sharing on social media

In the digital age, parents frequently post about their children on social media, capturing and sharing every milestone. While these posts may seem harmless or even endearing, they open the door to serious legal and privacy concerns.

This growing trend, known as “sharenting”, is a combination of the words “sharing” and “parenting” and refers to parents posting photos, videos, and personal details about their children online.

The rise of social media has made sharenting a widespread practice, with an entire generation growing up under constant digital exposure. For instance, when Facebook became available in Türkiye in 2008, countless photos and videos of children began circulating online without regulation.

However, according to Sahin Antakyalioglu, Coordinator of the Network of Lawyers Working in the Field of Children (CACAv), who spoke to the daily Hurriyet, parents and children alike still lack awareness of the legal consequences of these unauthorized posts.

Sharenting can lead to criminal charges

Beyond privacy concerns, sharenting can have serious legal implications. These posts may violate privacy laws and even contribute to criminal activities such as identity theft, exploitation, or worse.

Antakyalioglu highlights that children, as they grow older, may not resist their images being shared because of a distorted sense of popularity and digital validation.

A mother and her young daughter in bathrobes record a makeup tutorial at home. The daughter applies makeup while the mother films the process with a smartphone. - sharenting — A little girl and her mom, both wearing bathrobes, record a makeup tutorial at home. The adorable child applies makeup with a brush while her mother captures the moment for social media using a smartphone. (Adobe Stock Photo)

However, the Turkish Penal Code (TCK) clearly defines several crimes associated with these actions:

Violation of Privacy: Sharing a child’s personal life without consent is considered a breach of privacy.
Mishandling of Personal Data: Posting children’s information online may expose them to risks, including identity theft and online abuse.
Neglect and Abuse within Family Law: Parents who recklessly expose their children’s personal lives could face legal consequences under family protection laws.
Obscenity and Exploitation: If the shared content contains any inappropriate or exploitative material, it could constitute an offense under the TCK’s obscenity laws.

Severe penalties, including prison sentences

Antakyalioglu warns that certain social media posts could lead to even more serious charges. Depending on the content, crimes such as sexual harassment, exploitation, or even child abuse may come into play.

Sexual exploitation: Sentences range from 8 to 15 years in prison.
Harassment and abuse: Offenders may face 3 to 8 years of imprisonment.
Multiple offenses: If a post violates several laws, Türkiye’s Supreme Court prioritizes the most severe penalty.

A growing awareness, but more action needed

Despite the risks, many parents remain unaware of the dangers posed by sharenting. Digital footprints are nearly permanent, meaning the images and personal details shared today could impact a child’s future—from educational opportunities to career prospects and even personal relationships.