“Smile for the camera” – family vlogging and children’s personal data

The presence of family vlogging on social media is, today, undeniable. After all, many content creators are dedicated to documenting the lives of their families and, in particular, the (mis)adventures of their children. In the digital world, daily life has gained value and, with it, the exposure of minors’ data has become not only routine, but also profitable. 

Aware of the particular vulnerability of children, the GDPR (General Data Protection Regulation) established that the processing of minors’ data depends on the intervention of holders of parental responsibility. The aim is to prevent a minor’s lack of digital literacy from harming them, transferring to parents the burden of “deciding”, in favour of protecting children’s rights.

Reality shows, however, that parents do not always act in accordance with the best interests of the child. Likes, shares and paid partnerships encourage content creation and, consequently, the exposure of the minor. This progressive exposure creates an extensive digital footprint, composed of tantrums, difficulties at school and other moments of vulnerability that would normally remain within the sphere of private life.

Although the GDPR recognises minors’ right to erase data processed on the basis of the consent of holders of parental responsibility, there is no legal mechanism capable of completely eliminating the social and psychological consequences that continuous exposure on the Internet may cause.

"Parents do not always act in accordance with the best interests of the child. Likes, shares and paid partnerships encourage content creation and, consequently, the exposure of the minor."

In this regard, the effective protection of children’s rights requires a preventive approach. Limiting the content published and carefully weighing each share is essential, with the digital literacy of holders of parental responsibility playing a central role in this context. After all, the internet is forever and, as such, it is important to prevent a passing moment from becoming a permanent record, with lasting effects on the child’s privacy, reputation and well-being.

It is essential to remember that children’s personal data is precious. Despite the reinforced protection granted by the GDPR, it is crucial to reflect, before any smile for the camera, in order to ensure that the shared moments effectively place the minor and their rights at the forefront.