The Vodafone Foundation has introduced a new digital tool, RODIcheck, designed to help parents identify risky content before publishing it on social networks. This responds to the phenomenon of sharenting, i.e., excessive sharing of sensitive information and images of children. According to current data from the foundation, 47% of parents showcase photos of their offspring online, and more than half share data that allows a child to be easily localized.
A serious finding is that 27% of parents upload inappropriate or nude photos of children to social media. Such content could later be used for cyberbullying or exploited by predators. Surveys also show a significant perception gap between generations: while parents view sharing as a sign of pride or a digital album, only 11% of them ask for their children's consent. Conversely, 24% of parents never ask, even though more than half of children fear their images being misused or altered by artificial intelligence.
The RODIcheck tool, developed with the involvement of children themselves and experts, works by analyzing images. Parents can upload up to 10 photos, which the system evaluates, identifying potential risks – from embarrassing situations to security threats. For each image, the platform provides a clear commentary explaining why the content might be problematic.
“Parents usually share photos with good intentions. But what seems cute to them often doesn't to the children. RODIcheck provides specific feedback and shows where risks might arise,” explains Zuzana Holá, director of the Vodafone Foundation.
The project is also supported by the Czech Police and the Czech Telecommunication Office. Experts warn that inconsiderate sharing creates an irreversible digital footprint.
“We encounter cases where children’s photos become the basis for cyberbullying, blackmail, or other forms of abuse. Often, it's a matter of underestimating the consequences,” states Zuzana Pidrmanová from the Police Presidium of the Czech Republic.
The awareness campaign also includes a short documentary film by director Martin Pavol Repka titled Message for Parents. The film follows real families and contrasts the adult perspective with the feelings of children, who often perceive their digital footprint negatively. The RODIcheck tool is available to the public for free on the Digital Parenthood project website.