Dr Ismini Vasileiou will appear on ITV News to talk about internet safety.

The founder of the East Midlands Cyber Security Cluster was asked by the broadcaster to give her thoughts following a new campaign by the Information Commissioner’s Office. 

The campaign urges parents to have regular, meaningful conversations with their children about online privacy – something Dr Vasileiou says should be a basic life skill.

During the interview, Dr Vasileiou highlights how easily children’s personal data is collected through everyday online activities. From apps and games to social media, video platforms, and even emerging AI tools, data is constantly being shared – often without families fully realising it. 

Speaking after the recording, Dr Vasileiou, who is also an Associate Professor at De Montfort University, stressed that personal data goes far beyond names and addresses. 

“It includes images, voice recordings, location data, browsing behaviour, interests, contacts, and even patterns of interaction with apps,” she said.

“While a single piece of information may seem harmless, but combined with other data it can create a detailed picture of a child’s life. This aggregation of data is where the real risk lies.”

Dr Vasileiou also warned of the real-world consequences of children building a digital footprint from a young age. Such footprints can make children easier to identify, contact, or manipulate, exposing their routines, friendships, and vulnerabilities. 

She explained that children who are still developing their judgment may not fully understand the long-term implications of what they share.

Beyond immediate risks, she pointed to longer-term risks such as reputational damage, loss of privacy, targeted advertising, and profiling. Information shared in childhood can persist well into adulthood, shaping opportunities and perceptions later in life.

Dr Vasilieiou added: “Understanding online privacy is no longer optional. It should now be seen as a basic life skill, similar to road safety, that both children and parents must actively develop in today’s digital world.”

The news package is due to be aired on ITV soon.