Meta’s New AI Features: What Parents Need to Know About Privacy
At The McDonald College, the safety and wellbeing of our students is always our highest priority. In light of recent changes to Meta’s AI tools and the increasing ability of artificial intelligence to analyse and reuse publicly shared images, we will be reviewing our current practices around the publication of student photographs and videos. This does not mean we will stop celebrating the wonderful achievements of our students; however, we will be taking a more considered approach to what is shared publicly and ensuring that our consent processes, privacy settings and social media practices reflect the rapidly changing digital landscape. We will continue to educate students, staff and parents about digital footprints, online privacy and emerging AI technologies, while also reviewing existing online content and strengthening our procedures for protecting student identity and personal information. Our aim is to continue showcasing and celebrating our vibrant school community while ensuring we do so in a way that best protects our students in an increasingly AI-driven world.
The article below is adapted from information published by Kirra Pendergast, founder of Safe on Social (July 2026). We acknowledge Safe on Social as the original source of this information.
Many parents are asking what Meta’s recent AI changes actually mean and whether they should be concerned. While the technology and terminology can be confusing, the key issue is about how publicly shared photos can now be used.
What has changed?
Meta, the company that owns Instagram, Facebook, Messenger and WhatsApp, has introduced new AI tools that can use publicly available content to create new AI-generated images and experiences.
Previously, a public photo was generally something people could view, save or share. Now, AI systems can potentially analyse, transform and generate new content based on those images. In some cases, users may be able to reference public accounts and publicly shared photos when creating AI-generated content.
The significant shift is that photos are no longer just being seen by people they can also be used by increasingly powerful AI systems.
Why does this matter for privacy?
Many families assume privacy is about who can see a photo. However, the new concern is what can be done with a photo once it is publicly available.
A seemingly innocent image may contain information such as:
- A sporting club or team name
- A location or landmark
- A child’s appearance and age
- Details about routines, interests and activities
AI tools can analyse and connect these details much faster than a human could.
This does not mean a child’s identity can automatically be exposed, but it does mean that publicly available information can potentially be collected, processed and reused in ways that were not possible only a few years ago.
When people create accounts on Meta platforms, they agree to the company’s terms and conditions. These terms generally allow Meta to use, modify and create derivative works from content shared on their platforms.
While many users may never have anticipated today’s AI capabilities when they first signed up, the permissions granted through platform terms have become increasingly significant as AI technology evolves.
What are the risks for young people?
Online safety experts are particularly concerned about the possibility of:
- AI-generated fake images
- Impersonation accounts
- Cyberbullying using altered photos
- False information and misinformation
- Scams and social engineering
- The identification of schools, teams or frequent locations
Most people will never experience these issues directly, but schools and families are being encouraged to think proactively about reducing unnecessary exposure. Please see link below.
What can parents do?
The good news is that there are practical steps families can take:
✅ Review privacy settings on Instagram, Facebook and other social media platforms.
✅ Consider making personal accounts private where appropriate.
✅ Avoid sharing photos that clearly identify a child’s school, location or daily routine.
✅ Regularly review older public posts and albums.
✅ Talk to your children about digital footprints and the long-term impact of sharing online.
✅ Stay informed as platform settings and AI features continue to evolve.
The key message
The latest AI developments do not mean parents should stop sharing family photos online. However, they do highlight the importance of being thoughtful about what is shared publicly.
In today’s digital environment, privacy is no longer just about who can see a photo it is increasingly about how that photo might be used in the future.
