Spain leads Europe in frequency of posting children's photos online

A report by Aldeas Infantiles SOS titled ‘Crecer en el escaparate digital’ reveals that Spain has the highest incidence of ‘sharenting’ in Europe. One in four Spanish families publishes images of their children on the internet several times a year, exceeding the European average of one in five families.

The study indicates that 95% of parents of children aged 9 to 17 share such content to maintain contact with friends and family. However, three out of four families do not seek permission from their children before disseminating their images on digital platforms.

Experts warn of significant risks associated with this overexposure, including the potential for cyberbullying, the creation of fake profiles, and grooming. The report also highlights how smart devices and educational apps collect sensitive data regarding children's locations, habits, and learning patterns, further complicating their digital privacy and fundamental rights.