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School’s Secret: 4 Ways Your Child’s School Is Secretly Sharing Their Information

July 27, 2025 | Leave a Comment

Most parents assume their child’s personal information is safe at school—but the reality is more complicated. In today’s digital age, schools are collecting more data than ever, and much of it doesn’t stay within the classroom walls. From tech vendors to government agencies to marketing firms, that data can be shared or accessed in ways you may not even realize. The result? Your child’s school is secretly sharing their information far more often than you think. Knowing how and why this happens is the first step to taking back control over your child’s privacy.

1. Third-Party Educational Apps and Software

It’s become routine for schools to use educational apps for homework, testing, and virtual learning. But many of these platforms collect far more than just quiz scores. Student names, birthdays, email addresses, location data, and usage habits are often logged and shared with third-party companies. These companies may sell or analyze this data to improve their services—or to advertise. One of the most common ways your child’s school is secretly sharing their information is through partnerships with digital tools that aren’t always transparent about how that data is handled.

2. Directory Information Loopholes

Schools often release “directory information” to outside organizations without needing parental consent unless you opt out. This includes seemingly harmless details like your child’s name, grade level, date of birth, address, and participation in school activities. Unfortunately, this information can be requested by military recruiters, college marketers, and other groups, including companies targeting students for products or programs. Many parents don’t realize that unless they fill out specific forms at the beginning of the school year, this data can be shared legally. This loophole is a major way your child’s school is secretly sharing their information under the radar.

3. Online Learning Platforms and Proctoring Tools

Online test proctoring software and digital learning management systems often require webcams, microphones, and access to your child’s device. These tools can track keystrokes, facial movements, and browser history—all in the name of academic integrity. But once collected, that data may be stored on company servers, analyzed using AI, or even used to create digital profiles of students. Most parents aren’t made aware of the full extent of monitoring that comes with these systems. It’s another quiet example of how your child’s school is secretly sharing their information with outside tech providers.

4. School Photos, Social Media, and Public Displays

Schools love to showcase student achievements, often using bulletin boards, yearbooks, newsletters, or social media posts. While it may seem like a harmless celebration, those smiling photos often include full names, grade levels, and locations—sometimes without your knowledge. These images and details can end up being widely accessible, especially when shared on public platforms. If the school hasn’t implemented strong privacy policies, anyone from a local news site to a stranger online could access them. This public sharing is one of the lesser-known ways your child’s school is secretly sharing their information, often under the guise of recognition.

What You Can Do to Protect Your Child’s Data

You don’t need to panic, but you should absolutely be proactive. The fact that your child’s school is secretly sharing their information doesn’t mean they’re doing it maliciously. In some cases, it just means the systems in place don’t always prioritize privacy. Read the fine print on school policies, opt out of directory information sharing, and ask questions about the apps and tools your child is expected to use. Request written explanations for how data is collected, stored, and used. When you stay informed and involved, you can help ensure your child’s digital footprint is one they feel safe standing on.

Have you ever been surprised by how your child’s school handled their information? What steps have you taken to protect their privacy? Let’s talk in the comments.

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Catherine Reed

Catherine is a tech-savvy writer who has focused on the personal finance space for more than eight years. She has a Bachelor’s in Information Technology and enjoys showcasing how tech can simplify everyday personal finance tasks like budgeting, spending tracking, and planning for the future. Additionally, she’s explored the ins and outs of the world of side hustles and loves to share what she’s learned along the way. When she’s not working, you can find her relaxing at home in the Pacific Northwest with her two cats or enjoying a cup of coffee at her neighborhood cafe.

The Silent Spy: 9 Popular Kids’ Games Secretly Selling Their Data

July 24, 2025 | Leave a Comment

That colorful, harmless-looking game on your child’s tablet might be doing more than keeping them entertained. Behind the music, rewards, and cartoon avatars, many kids’ games are collecting personal information and sharing it with third-party advertisers. These apps often bury the truth in lengthy privacy policies, counting on parents not to dig too deep. But data tracking isn’t just a minor privacy issue—it can expose your child to targeted ads, identity risks, and ongoing surveillance. Knowing which kids’ games secretly sell their data is the first step in protecting your child’s digital footprint and giving you peace of mind.

1. My Talking Tom

This cute, talking cat app is wildly popular, but it’s also one of the kids’ games secretly selling their data. While it entertains with mimicry and dressing-up features, it collects a surprising amount of user data. This includes device identifiers, location data, and behavioral tracking. The game has been criticized for vague privacy policies and not being upfront about how much data it shares with third parties. Despite its appeal, it’s worth thinking twice before letting your child interact with Tom.

2. Roblox

Roblox is a major platform where kids build and play games created by others, but it doesn’t come without risk. The app tracks user data for advertising and monetization purposes and has faced scrutiny over how it handles user privacy. While it includes parental controls, many parents are unaware of how much background data collection is happening. From avatars to chat logs, plenty of identifiable information can be stored and shared. If your child uses Roblox, take time to review and tighten the app’s privacy settings.

3. Subway Surfers

Subway Surfers is a fast-paced runner game with bright colors and addictive gameplay, making it a favorite among kids. However, it has been flagged for collecting extensive amounts of data, including precise location tracking. The app shares this information with advertisers, even when users don’t realize it’s happening. This kind of tracking opens the door to hyper-targeted ads and long-term profiling. It’s one of the clearest examples of kids’ games secretly selling their data without obvious warning.

4. Magic Tiles 3

This musical tapping game may look innocent, but it’s another data-hungry app targeting kids. Magic Tiles 3 collects device information, usage patterns, and location data, often without clear permission. These details are then handed off to advertising partners, many of which operate globally. Because the game has minimal content oversight, it combines both privacy risks and questionable in-game ads. If your child enjoys rhythm games, consider safer alternatives with stricter data protections.

5. Angry Birds 2

The Angry Birds franchise has long been a hit with kids, but its data practices have been equally long criticized. Angry Birds 2 collects everything from usage habits to in-app behaviors and shares them with multiple ad networks. The game’s monetization model relies heavily on behavioral tracking, which directly influences the ads your child sees. Even without logging in, gameplay behavior can be tied to a unique device ID. Parents should know that this game has become more about data than just flying birds.

6. Fun Kid Racing

This simple racing game might look like a safe pick for young kids, but it’s a surprising entry among kids’ games secretly selling their data. The app tracks your child’s usage and shares data with third-party ad services—many of which aren’t child-focused. Additionally, the in-game ads are often not age-appropriate, exposing young players to marketing that doesn’t match their maturity level. Apps like these highlight how data tracking often comes wrapped in harmless-looking packages.

7. Princess Salon

Princess-themed games are a go-to for many young kids, but Princess Salon crosses the line when it comes to privacy. It’s been cited by watchdog groups for excessive data collection and sharing practices. The app gathers user behavior, device identifiers, and browsing habits, then hands that data off to advertisers. Despite its sweet and sparkly interface, it’s a behind-the-scenes data trap. Parents should be cautious of beauty and fashion games that overreach into personal privacy.

8. Candy Crush Soda Saga

This puzzle game is as addicting as it is data-hungry. While it markets itself to all ages, Candy Crush Soda Saga tracks user patterns aggressively for ad targeting. It stores interaction habits, time spent playing, and even payment attempts—data that’s valuable to marketers. The app also requires permissions that can expose more of your device than you’d expect from a casual game. It’s a reminder that even well-known brands can be major culprits in sharing kids’ gaming data.

9. Talking Angela

Talking Angela, much like its cousin Talking Tom, has long faced rumors and controversy over privacy issues. While some of the creepier myths have been debunked, it’s true that the game collects and sells personal data. This includes everything from voice recordings to browsing habits if permissions are granted. The app markets to kids but doesn’t always handle their data with the care you’d expect. It’s another example of a friendly face hiding a digital trail.

Digital Fun Shouldn’t Come at the Cost of Privacy

As entertaining as these games may be, the reality is that many kids’ games secretly selling their data prioritize ad revenue over safety. Children can’t understand the risks of data tracking, and many parents don’t realize what permissions they’ve approved. The best defense is awareness—review privacy settings, choose apps with certified kid-safe standards, and avoid games that don’t clearly disclose their data practices. By taking control now, you can ensure playtime stays fun, safe, and private.

Have you ever been shocked by the data practices of a game your child plays? Share your experience or trusted kid-safe apps in the comments below.

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Kid Privacy: 9 Privacy Settings You Didn’t Know Existed for Kids’ Devices

July 18, 2025 | Leave a Comment

We all want our kids to be tech-savvy—but safe. Today’s devices offer a world of entertainment, education, and connection, but they also carry risks that aren’t always obvious. While most parents know how to set screen time limits or block explicit content, there are lesser-known privacy settings that can make a big difference in keeping your child’s digital world protected. These hidden tools are often buried under layers of menus or labeled in vague tech language that’s easy to overlook. Let’s dig into nine privacy settings that deserve your attention—because your child’s safety is too important to leave to default options.

1. Disable Location Sharing in Game Apps

Many mobile games collect location data by default, even if it doesn’t seem relevant to gameplay. Disabling location sharing in individual app settings prevents strangers from seeing where your child is while playing. This setting is often tucked away under each app’s permissions or privacy section. Some platforms also allow you to turn off location access for all games at once in the device settings. Taking the time to disable location tracking adds a strong layer of safety for kids who love mobile gaming.

2. Turn Off Personalized Ad Tracking

Most parents don’t realize that their child’s device might be gathering data to target them with ads. By diving into the privacy settings on both Android and iOS, you can limit ad tracking or reset the advertising ID. This step stops platforms from building a detailed profile on your child’s behavior and interests. While it won’t eliminate all ads, it greatly reduces the creep factor and helps maintain their digital privacy. It’s a small adjustment with a big impact.

3. Disable Microphone Access for Non-Essential Apps

Some apps request microphone access without a clear need, which can be a red flag. Go through your child’s installed apps and manually revoke microphone permissions for those that don’t need it to function. This ensures no apps are passively listening in or collecting audio data. You’ll usually find this under “App Permissions” in your device’s settings menu. Controlling mic access is one of the smartest privacy settings you can use.

4. Hide Sensitive Content from Search Results

Whether your child uses Google, YouTube, or a smart assistant, sensitive content can still pop up even with parental controls in place. Look for SafeSearch or restricted mode settings to filter results and limit explicit or suggestive material. You can also lock these preferences with a passcode so your child can’t turn them off later. These settings are especially useful for kids doing homework or exploring new topics online. It’s an extra step that can protect them from stumbling across something they weren’t ready to see.

5. Limit Who Can See Their Activity on Shared Platforms

If your child is on shared platforms like Xbox Live, Roblox, or YouTube Kids, privacy settings often allow you to control who can view their profile or activity. You can usually make their account private, restrict friend requests, or hide their online status. This reduces exposure to strangers and helps keep your child’s online presence as minimal as possible. Each platform will have its own path to these options, so it’s worth exploring them thoroughly. Think of it as digital crowd control for your child’s online world.

6. Disable Auto-Join for Public Wi-Fi

Kids may not think twice about joining any Wi-Fi network their device suggests, but public networks can be risky. Most devices allow you to turn off the auto-join feature for unsecured networks. This prevents your child from accidentally connecting to unprotected or malicious Wi-Fi. If your child needs Wi-Fi access on the go, consider setting up a secure hotspot through your own phone instead. This setting protects their data before they even open a browser.

7. Restrict App Store Permissions

It’s easy for kids to stumble into downloads you didn’t approve of. In the privacy settings of both iOS and Android, you can limit access to the app store, require your permission for downloads, or block in-app purchases. This keeps surprise charges and inappropriate apps off your credit card and out of your child’s hands. Some devices also offer content filters by age rating right in the app store settings. Locking down the app store gives you a say in what your child installs and interacts with.

8. Block Access to Camera When Not in Use

Much like microphone access, camera access should be reserved for apps that truly need it. By restricting camera permissions, you reduce the risk of unwanted image capturing or video streaming. Devices let you control this individually per app, often through privacy settings or app permissions. Some parental control apps also allow you to lock the camera entirely during certain hours. It’s a key move for privacy, especially with kids who are still learning boundaries around selfies and video calls.

9. Use a Child’s Apple ID or Google Account with Family Settings

Instead of using your own login or a generic account, set up a child-specific Apple ID or Google account. These offer more detailed privacy settings and better oversight of usage, downloads, and screen time. You’ll also receive notifications for new logins or security changes. Family settings make it easier to monitor your child’s activity while keeping their data secure and age-appropriate. It’s one of the best all-in-one solutions for digital parenting.

The Hidden Settings That Keep Kids Safe

The default settings on most kids’ devices aren’t designed with maximum protection in mind—they’re built for convenience. But with a little digging, you can uncover privacy settings that give you far more control and peace of mind. Whether it’s locking down location sharing or limiting ad tracking, each step adds up to a safer digital experience. As technology evolves, staying informed about these lesser-known tools is key to protecting your child online. Take the time to explore these features now—it could prevent a whole lot of problems later.

Have you discovered any surprising privacy settings on your child’s device? Share your tips with other parents in the comments!

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