The Information Commissioner’s Office is launching a campaign to treat children's online privacy like stranger danger and road safety, guiding families to discuss privacy basics with kids aged four to eleven.

A new survey shows 22% of children have shared personal data such as health details with AI tools and 24% have shared their real name or address online, with eight- and nine-year-olds most at risk.

The data also reveal that a single click can reveal sensitive information and create a lasting digital footprint, while parents feel underprepared: 46% aren’t confident protecting privacy, 44% doubt they’re doing enough, and 42% don’t spend enough time on privacy settings.

The story notes a £14.47 million fine levied against Reddit for breaches of children’s privacy and mentions ongoing investigations into TikTok and Imgur’s MediaLab as part of broader regulatory scrutiny.

Dame Rachel de Souza, England’s children’s commissioner, calls for accountability from tech companies to design services with children’s safety and privacy by design, not as an afterthought, and for early, everyday conversations about online risks.

She also advocates a society-wide approach to protect children online and holding tech firms accountable for creating safer, privacy-focused experiences.

De Souza stresses that parents should feel confident engaging in early, everyday discussions with children about online risks and how to respond to discomfort online.

The campaign promotes a society-wide effort involving parents, children, and tech companies to strengthen online privacy protections for young users.