Nebraska State Patrol urges caution when posting back-to-school photos

LINCOLN, Neb. (KLKN) – During back-to-school time, parents fill social media feeds with kids’ first week of school photos.

But in doing so, they can give other people easy access to their children. 

The Nebraska State Patrol Technical Crimes Division is warning parents of the dangers of this practice. 

“Once you post something online, it is out there for anyone and everyone to see,” State Patrol Lt. Monty Lovelace said. “Parents are excited for their kids, excited for new opportunities and want to post that online.” 

Parents should keep in mind that there are some specific things that predators look into. 

Lovelace said online predators are interested in the way kids look, the way they dress and information on where they go to school.  

The patrol said that if parents still want to share this type of photo, they can do so in a safe way.  

“Post it to friends and family,” Lovelace said. “Utilize those security mechanisms on social networking sites that gives you the best chances to keep the information as safe as possible.”’ 

Lovelace also said parents should know how their kids use these platforms and talk about proper ways to use them.