On the occasion of June 1 – International Children’s Day, the Information and Data Protection Commissioner’s Office wishes all children a happy, safe and protected childhood, emphasizing that in the digital age, the protection of children is closely related to the protection of their personal data.
In the context of this day, the Commissioner’s Office has published the Guide “On the Protection of Personal Data of Minors”, an information and awareness-raising material drafted in implementation of Law No. 124/2024 “On the Protection of Personal Data”, with the aim of raising the awareness of children, parents and institutions on the importance of their data and online security.
In a reality where children use social networks, applications, electronic games and various online platforms every day, exposure to digital risks has become increasingly present. Careless sharing of photos, publishing personal information, communicating with strangers or using unsafe applications can have long-term consequences for the privacy, safety and well-being of minors.
For this reason, the guide aims to serve as a practical and educational tool to help minors better understand what personal data is, how it is used in the online environment and why it should be protected.
The document addresses in a simple and understandable way the rights of minors as subjects of personal data, explaining the right to information, access, correction, deletion, restriction of processing, as well as the right to be forgotten. It also guides children on how they can seek help and react in cases of unauthorized sharing of data or violation of their privacy.
Specifically, the guide offers practical advice on safe internet use, such as creating strong passwords, checking privacy settings on social networks, avoiding sharing personal information with strangers, being careful about unsafe links or applications, and the importance of thinking before publishing any photo or information online.
Special attention is also paid to the risks associated with cyberbullying, online fraud, tracking online activities, and the use of personal data for marketing or profiling purposes. Through concrete examples and age-appropriate language, the guide aims to create a culture of greater awareness and responsibility among minors when using technology.
The guide also highlights the important role of parents, teachers, and educational institutions in creating a safer digital environment for children, by promoting communication, support, and ongoing education on privacy and online safety.
At a time when technology has become an inseparable part of children’s daily lives, the protection of personal data remains an essential element for guaranteeing their dignity, security and fundamental rights.
The Commissioner’s Office remains committed to promoting a sustainable culture of personal data protection and building a safer internet for children, through information, education and cooperation with institutions, schools, parents and minors themselves.
The full guide has been published on the institution’s official website and can be accessed through this link -> Link
