Privacy Alert: 9 Settings for Kids’ Devices You Need to Change

July 4, 2025

Handing a device to a child may seem like a simple way to keep them entertained, educated, or connected—but it also opens the door to privacy risks most parents don’t think about. From location tracking to microphone access, kids’ devices come preloaded with settings that often favor convenience over protection. If you don’t take the time to adjust them, your child’s personal information could be shared far more widely than you realize. The good news is that with a few quick changes, you can dramatically reduce that risk. Here’s what to review and update before letting your child explore the digital world on their own.

1. Disable Location Tracking

One of the first settings to change on kids’ devices is location tracking. Many apps request access to a device’s GPS to deliver location-based services, but they don’t need this for basic functionality. If left enabled, these apps can track and store your child’s movements, creating potential safety concerns. Go into the device’s privacy settings and switch location sharing to “only while using the app” or disable it entirely. Always double-check for hidden permissions in gaming and photo-sharing apps.

2. Turn Off Microphone Access

Microphone access is often granted without much thought, but it can lead to passive listening by third-party apps. Review each app on your child’s device and revoke microphone permissions for those that don’t absolutely need it. Many social media and entertainment apps request it by default, even if your child isn’t using voice features. This setting can usually be toggled off in both app permissions and system-level privacy controls. It’s one of the easiest ways to reduce potential eavesdropping risks.

3. Limit App Store Purchases

Unrestricted access to app stores can lead to accidental downloads, in-app purchases, or even exposure to inappropriate content. Most kids’ devices allow you to set up parental approval for purchases, downloads, and subscriptions. Enable features like “Ask to Buy” or password requirements for every transaction. You can also block access to the app store entirely during certain hours. A quick setting change here could save you hundreds of dollars in surprise charges.

4. Disable Ad Personalization

Advertisers collect data from kids’ devices to serve targeted ads, often without clear consent. Turn off ad personalization through device settings to prevent ad networks from creating a detailed profile of your child’s interests and habits. While this doesn’t eliminate ads entirely, it ensures they’re less tailored and intrusive. Both Android and iOS devices offer options to “limit ad tracking” or “opt out of ad personalization.” This setting is a smart move for reducing data collection from third parties.

5. Set Up Screen Time Restrictions

Screen time isn’t just about limiting hours on the device—it also helps you control app access, content types, and usage habits. Use built-in parental controls to set daily time limits, block certain categories, or restrict access to specific apps altogether. Many platforms also offer detailed reports so you can monitor how your child spends their time. Setting up these limits encourages balance and promotes healthy tech habits early on. It also helps ensure kids aren’t sneaking in late-night screen sessions.

6. Enable Safe Search Filters

Web browsers, YouTube, and app stores often include built-in safety filters, but they’re not always turned on by default. Safe search filters help block inappropriate content before it ever reaches your child’s screen. Head into browser and app settings to activate the highest level of content filtering available. Consider adding additional child-safe browsers or installing a third-party parental control app for added protection. These filters aren’t perfect, but they do a good job of filtering out most problematic content.

7. Turn Off Auto-Sync to Cloud Accounts

Auto-syncing data like photos, videos, and contacts to cloud accounts can create privacy issues, especially if those accounts aren’t properly secured. On many kids’ devices, these settings are turned on by default. Go into the settings to disable automatic backup or link the device to a family-managed cloud account with strong privacy protections. You should also review which apps have access to cloud storage and revoke permissions where needed. Keeping personal content local adds another layer of security.

8. Restrict Social Media and Chat Features

Many games and apps include hidden social features like chat rooms, friend requests, or open comment sections. These features often go unnoticed until something inappropriate happens. Use device settings to block access to social media platforms or restrict chatting in apps where possible. Some apps allow you to hide or disable chat completely, which is ideal for younger kids. Regularly check your child’s apps for updates that may re-enable these features without notice.

9. Review Permissions for Each New App

Every time a new app is installed, it usually asks for access to data, features, or tools on the device. Make a habit of reviewing these permissions before your child uses the app. Ask yourself whether the app truly needs access to the camera, contacts, or storage. Deny any unnecessary permissions, and recheck them after app updates. Teaching your child this habit now will help them be more aware of digital boundaries in the future.

Your Privacy Settings Checklist Starts Here

Keeping kids’ devices safe doesn’t require fancy software or endless monitoring—it just takes a little time to adjust the right settings. By focusing on privacy, you’re not just protecting their information, you’re teaching them the value of boundaries in a digital world. These quick changes can go a long way in building safer online habits and giving you peace of mind. Start with these nine privacy settings, and revisit them regularly as your child grows and their tech needs evolve.

Which privacy setting did you find most surprising or important? Share your thoughts—and any tips you use—in the comments below!

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