privacy settings Archives - Kids Ain't Cheap

1. TikTok Tracks More Than Just Trends

TikTok is one of the most downloaded apps worldwide and a favorite among tweens and teens. While it markets itself as a creative outlet, it’s also notorious for collecting a wide range of personal data. This includes location, browsing history, device information, and even keystroke patterns. TikTok’s privacy policy allows it to store and share this information with third parties, which raises serious concerns about your kid’s privacy. Even with a private account, a lot of background data can still be harvested.

2. Snapchat Isn’t as Disappearing as It Claims

Snapchat is built around the idea that photos and messages vanish after a short time, which gives kids a false sense of security. However, the app still stores metadata like location, phone contacts, and usage habits. It also has features like Snap Map that show real-time locations unless explicitly disabled. Kids may think they’re sharing privately, but Snapchat can collect and retain significant amounts of behavioral data. Parents should double-check privacy settings and discuss how the app really works with their child.

3. Roblox Gathers Data Through Gameplay and Purchases

Roblox is more than just a game—it’s a full digital world where kids build, play, and interact with others. What most users don’t realize is that Roblox also tracks user behavior, spending patterns, chat activity, and even in-game movements. While some of this helps improve user experience, it also contributes to personalized advertising and deep data profiling. Because many children use the platform without fully understanding privacy implications, your kid’s privacy may be compromised during play. Keeping parental controls active and reviewing permissions can help reduce exposure.

4. YouTube and YouTube Kids Still Collect Personal Info

Even YouTube Kids, which is specifically marketed as child-friendly, has faced scrutiny for collecting data on young viewers. Both YouTube and its kid-focused app track search history, viewing habits, and device identifiers to suggest content and deliver targeted ads. In 2019, YouTube was fined by the FTC for violating child privacy laws, but data collection practices still persist in less obvious ways. Unless a child is using the app with a supervised Google account, their data is likely still being tracked. It’s important to adjust settings and use approved supervised accounts to better safeguard your kid’s privacy.

5. Discord Collects More Than Just Chat Logs

Discord is a popular platform for gamers and group chats, but it also collects extensive user data including IP addresses, device types, messages, and connected accounts. It’s often used by teens to communicate during gaming sessions or hangouts, and many servers are open to the public. This increases the risk of interacting with strangers and exposing personal details. While the app has privacy controls, they are not always enabled by default, leaving younger users vulnerable. Parents should monitor how Discord is used and encourage private server use with trusted friends only.

6. Instagram’s Data Collection Goes Beyond Photos

Instagram is visually appealing and easy to use, which makes it attractive to preteens and teens—even though the app requires users to be at least 13. Behind the scenes, Instagram collects detailed information on what users like, view, comment on, and even hover over. It builds a full behavioral profile that feeds into the larger Meta advertising engine. Even private accounts don’t stop the app from gathering extensive background data. For your kid’s privacy, it’s crucial to limit time spent on the app, restrict ad settings, and talk openly about what’s shared online.

Teaching Privacy Starts at Home

While it may feel like you need a tech degree to keep up with all the apps your child is using, the most powerful defense for your kid’s privacy is a conversation. By understanding which apps collect data and how that information is used, you can help your child make more informed choices. It’s also important to regularly review app permissions, enable parental controls, and set boundaries on device use. Most importantly, encourage your child to ask questions and speak up if something feels off online. Privacy isn’t just about settings—it’s about awareness, trust, and teamwork.

Have you found any surprising data practices in apps your child uses? Share what you’ve learned—or what you’ve changed—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.

Kid Privacy 9 Privacy Settings You Didn't Know Existed for Kids Devices — Image source: 123rf.com

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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