Social media poses mental health and privacy risks to children

Experts are highlighting the complex risks social media poses to the mental health and privacy of children and adolescents. While digital platforms offer opportunities for community and support, they also expose young users to cyberbullying, harmful content, and exploitative advertising.

In Indonesia, discussions have emerged regarding whether limiting account access is sufficient to protect mental well-being, as platform design often fails to prioritize the safety of minors. Meanwhile, in Singapore and Malaysia, concerns are rising over ‘sharenting’—the practice of parents sharing children's photos and videos online.

A study by the University of Malaya found that 63.1 percent of parents admit posts featuring their children receive more engagement than other content. This trend can turn children into part of the digital attention economy, potentially compromising their privacy and safety by exposing sensitive information such as school uniforms, home locations, and daily routines.