The Ultimate Online Safety Checklist for Parents (Printable)

Use this checklist to ensure your child's digital life is as safe as possible. Bookmark this page and review it regularly.

Device Settings

• Set a screen lock (PIN, fingerprint, or Face ID)
• Enable "Find My Device" / "Find My iPhone" for location tracking
• Disable in-app purchases or require password for purchases
• Set up age-appropriate content restrictions in device settings
• Enable safe search in Google and YouTube
• Disable location services for unnecessary apps
• Turn off Bluetooth and AirDrop when not in use

Social Media Safety

• Set all social media accounts to private
• Review and approve friend/follower requests
• Disable location tagging on posts and photos
• Turn off "Allow messages from everyone" settings
• Review bio — no school name, address, or personal details
• Ensure your child knows how to block and report users
• Discuss what's appropriate to share vs. keep private

Communication Rules

• Never share personal information (full name, school, address, phone number) with strangers online
• Never meet someone in person that they only know online
• Always tell a parent if someone online makes them uncomfortable
• Never send photos of themselves to people they don't know in real life
• Don't click links from unknown sources
• Use strong, unique passwords for each account

Monitoring Setup

• Install a parental monitoring app like TruSpyX
• Enable GPS location tracking
• Set up geofencing alerts for school, home, and friend's house
• Configure screen time limits for school nights and weekends
• Review monitoring dashboard weekly
• Check social media messages for any concerning patterns

Family Agreements

• Create a family technology agreement (screen time, device-free zones)
• Schedule regular digital check-ins (weekly or biweekly)
• Agree on consequences for rule violations
• Model good digital habits yourself
• Keep devices in common areas, especially at bedtime

Emergency Preparedness

• Know how to contact the platform's safety team for each app your child uses
• Save the NCMEC CyberTipline number: 1-800-843-5678
• Save the Suicide Prevention Lifeline: 988
• Know how to report cyberbullying to your child's school
• Have a plan for if your child receives threats or explicit content