In today’s digital world, your phone number is more than just a way to call or text someone it’s a key to your online identity. If someone gets your number, they can use it to look you up on apps like Instagram, Facebook, and Snapchat. Even if your account is private, they might still find your profile or see things like your name, username, or even your picture.
That’s right, just by saving your phone number in their contacts, someone could start tracking your social media. This is how stalkers and online creeps can find kids or teens without even knowing their username. Scary, right?
But don’t worry, there are steps you can take to protect yourself and your family. Here are 5 smart tips for parents to help keep your kids safer when using their phones and social media:
- Don’t Link Your Phone Number to Social Media Apps
Most social media apps like Instagram and Snapchat ask you to add your phone number when you create an account. It might seem helpful for finding friends, but it also allows people who have your number in their contacts to find you even if you don’t want them to.
Tip: Go into the app’s settings and remove the phone number or turn off the setting that says “Let others find me using my phone number.” It’s usually under privacy or account settings.
- Turn Off Contact Syncing
Apps like Facebook and Snapchat often ask to “sync contacts” when you install them. What this means is: they upload your phone’s contact list to their servers. That way, they can suggest friends based on who you know. But this also means anyone who has your kid’s number can be recommended as a friend or find their account.
Tip: Go into each social app your child uses and turn off contact syncing. This stops the app from connecting your child’s phone number to other people’s contact lists.
- Use a Separate Email, Not a Phone Number
Many social platforms give you the option to sign up using an email address instead of a phone number. An email is harder to guess or track, especially if it’s not connected to your child’s real name.
Tip: Create a special email just for social media accounts. Use it instead of a phone number. Keep it private and avoid using personal info like a birthday or full name.
- Keep Profiles Private and Use Nicknames
Even if someone finds your kid’s account, you can limit what they see. Most social media apps allow you to set the account to private, so only approved friends can see posts and stories. Also, using a nickname or shortened name can make your child harder to find through search.
Tip: Help your child choose a fun but anonymous username and make sure their profile doesn’t show full names, schools, or city locations.
- Talk About Digital Privacy and Trust Their Gut
The most powerful tool is awareness. Kids and teens need to understand how sharing too much even a phone number can put them at risk. Encourage them to speak up if something feels off. If someone they don’t know tries to message them or send a friend request, remind them it’s okay to ignore or block that person.
Tip: Have regular conversations about social media safety. It’s not about spying it’s about keeping them smart, aware, and confident online.
