If you’re the parent of a child, you realize their wellbeing is of the highest priority. With about 72% of children using Instagram today (according to Hootsuite), you should be concerned about your child’s use of it. There are online predators, cyberbullies, catfishers, and other criminals who wish to do your child harm. The only way you can ensure their safety is by spying on their Instagram account.
Below, are the best tips for mobile spying on your child’s Instagram, without being a helicopter parent.
#1: Know Why You Want To Monitor Your Child’s Instagram
Before you begin, you must think about your motives behind wanting to view your child’s Instagram profile. Are they new to Instagram? Do you want to protect them from online dangers? Have they been acting suspiciously lately? These are just some questions to ask yourself.
#2: Do You Want Your Child To Know You’re Spying On Them?
Some parents want to be discreet when monitoring their child’s Instagram. Others want to be upfront with their child about it. It is entirely up to you and your situation whether or not you let your child know you’re snooping on them.
If you are planning on being upfront with your child, here are some steps to follow:
- Sit down and create your child’s Instagram account with them.
- Make sure their account is private.
- Click on ≡ → Settings → Privacy → Account Privacy → Turn on Private Account
- Their profile shouldn’t divulge personal details about them like age and where they live.
- Hide offensive comments you don’t want your child to see.
- Click on ≡ → Settings → Privacy → Comments → Turn on Hide Offensive Comments
- Use Two-Factor Authentication to secure your child’s account from hackers.
- Write down your child’s Instagram login credentials so you can access their account when necessary.
- Teach them the basics of Instagram safety.
#3: Get An Instagram Spy App
Now, to put your Instagram spying into action. Online, in the App Store, and on Google Play, there are discrete Instagram cell phone spying apps parents can use. These apps enable a parent to spy on Instagram messages, comments, photos posted and liked, and more. Usually, the information is accessible within the app or via an online control panel. However, be wary of free Instagram spying software options. Most of the time, they are a scam with hidden in-app purchases.
#4: Create An Instagram Account
If you’re not comfortable using an Instagram spy app or don’t want to pay for one, you could create an Instagram account. Create a handle that isn’t obvious like your name, and use a photo of an inconspicuous object like a flower. Then, request to follow your child’s account, unless they have a public account.
#5: Don’t Make Your Spying Obvious
When trying to keep your spying activities a secret, you need to hide it well. It may be hard, but don’t want to make it obvious that you’re tracking their Instagram conversations and other activities. When talking to them about how their day was or what they’re doing on their phone, avoid the urge to spill the beans. Keeping the secret could lead to you protecting them from dangers on Instagram.
#6: If You Uncover Something Serious, Talk To Your Child
If you see something serious while monitoring your child’s Instagram profile, talk to them about it. It’s your job as a parent to protect your child and be their support system. Even if they did something bad, you need to show them they can share anything with you. There’s a time to step back, and there’s a time to be a hands-on parent.
Keeping children safe online, especially on Instagram, is crucial for parents to do. Social media networks aren’t going away anytime soon, and are going to continue to grow in popularity. Parents need to do their part and be aware of what apps and social platforms their children are using.
Looking for other useful apps to use? Check out: Useful Smartphone Apps for Parents