Forum: Are name labels a security risk for children?

I would like to raise a concern about children wearing name labels on their school uniforms, bags, and personal belongings.

While these labels are often used to help staff identify students and manage belongings, they may unintentionally create safeguarding risks in today’s environment, where mobile phone cameras are everywhere.

A child’s name can easily be captured in photos or videos taken in public spaces such as buses, MRT stations, playgrounds or shopping malls. Once shared online, these images may circulate far beyond their original context. In some cases, strangers may also use a child’s name to appear familiar or trustworthy when approaching them.

Many parents carefully limit the amount of personal information about their children that is shared online. Yet visible name labels effectively broadcast a child’s identity in public every day.

Perhaps it is time for schools to review whether full names need to be displayed so prominently. Safeguarding practices must evolve alongside technology and changing social habits. What was once harmless may deserve reconsideration today.

Kristin Heng