Today’s kids are growing up in a world where devices are as common as backpacks and lunchboxes. While technology offers amazing educational and entertainment tools, it also opens doors to privacy risks that most parents aren’t even aware of. Apps, games, smart speakers, and tablets often collect far more personal data than they should—sometimes without clear consent. If your child uses any connected device, taking a few minutes to adjust the default privacy settings can make a huge difference in protecting their information. Here are nine privacy settings for kids’ devices that every parent should change right now.
1. Turn Off Location Sharing
Many devices and apps come with location tracking enabled by default, which means your child’s movements can be logged and shared. While some location services are helpful (like finding a lost phone), others pose real risks when left open to games, social platforms, or unknown apps. Disabling this feature for non-essential apps protects your child’s real-time location from being accessed or shared with strangers. You can usually manage this under “Privacy” or “Location Services” in device settings. Be sure to double-check after installing new apps, as permissions may reset.
2. Disable Microphone Access for Unused Apps
Some apps ask for microphone access even if they have no clear reason to use it. This can leave your child’s device vulnerable to passive audio collection, including background conversations. Review all installed apps and toggle off microphone permissions unless it’s a voice-based feature your child regularly uses. This is especially important for games, camera apps, or lesser-known apps downloaded for fun. Reducing mic access limits data collection and helps prevent unintentional eavesdropping.
3. Block Access to the Camera When Not Needed
Apps that use augmented reality or selfies may request access to your device’s camera. While it may seem harmless, leaving the camera available gives certain apps a direct visual channel into your child’s surroundings. Go into settings and disable camera access for any app that doesn’t need it for core functions. You can always re-enable it temporarily if needed. This is one of the simplest privacy settings for kids’ devices that can prevent serious breaches.
4. Adjust App Store and Download Permissions
Kids can accidentally (or intentionally) download apps that bypass parental controls or pose security risks. Limiting access to downloads or requiring approval before installation gives you control over what enters the device. On Apple devices, this can be set under “Screen Time” restrictions; Android users can do this through the Google Family Link app. Always check the app’s privacy policy and reviews before approving. Even popular games can hide aggressive data collection in the fine print.
5. Turn Off Ad Personalization
Ad personalization uses your child’s activity to serve targeted ads, which may seem innocent but can lead to deep data profiling over time. Most platforms, including Apple, Google, and Amazon, allow you to turn off this feature in the privacy settings. Doing so reduces the amount of information shared with third-party advertisers and limits how your child is tracked online. It’s one of the easiest privacy settings for kids’ devices to overlook but also one of the most important. Less data sharing means less risk.
6. Restrict Social Media Privacy Settings
If your child is using social platforms, double-check the default privacy settings, which often lean toward public visibility. Set profiles to private, restrict who can send friend requests or messages, and disable tagging where possible. Also limit location tagging and face recognition features, which are often turned on by default. Encourage your child to think before sharing personal photos, videos, or location details. Regular conversations about online behavior reinforce the importance of these choices.
7. Disable Auto-Connect to Wi-Fi Networks
Many devices are set to automatically connect to open Wi-Fi networks, which can put your child’s data at risk on unprotected or malicious networks. Go into your child’s device settings and turn off the auto-connect feature. Teach them to ask you before joining a new network, especially in public places like coffee shops, airports, or parks. Using only secure, password-protected connections helps avoid potential hackers or data theft. A VPN may also be worth considering for added safety.
8. Block In-App Purchases
In-app purchases are a financial hazard, but they also often come bundled with permissions that open access to stored data or contacts. Setting a passcode or biometric ID requirement for purchases helps prevent accidental buys and keeps privacy intact. Some apps sneak in permissions through purchase prompts, so keeping this locked down reduces exposure. Both iOS and Android offer easy toggles to disable or restrict in-app purchasing. It’s one more way to keep control of your child’s device and data.
9. Review Permissions Every Month
Even if you set everything up once, updates or new downloads can override previous settings. Get into the habit of reviewing your child’s privacy settings monthly to make sure nothing has changed without your knowledge. Devices often add new features or request additional access during updates. A quick scan of camera, mic, location, and app permissions can catch anything new. Making it a routine ensures privacy settings for kids’ devices stay secure over time.
Small Tweaks, Big Peace of Mind
Keeping your kids safe online starts with the privacy settings most people forget to change. These small tweaks don’t take much time but offer big protection against hidden risks. From limiting data collection to stopping strangers from seeing where your child is or what they’re doing, each setting makes your family’s tech use smarter and safer. The digital world is always changing but staying informed gives you a real edge. Don’t wait for something to go wrong—lock down these settings today.
Have you found any surprising privacy settings on your child’s device? Share your experience or tips in the comments below!
Read More:
12 Steps to Secure Your Child’s Digital Footprint for Life
11 Online Safety Risks Your Preschooler Faces
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.
