PRIVACY MANAGEMENT
GEOTAGGING
WHAT IS GEOTAGGING?
Geotagging refers to the embedding of location data, such as
Global Positioning System (GPS) coordinates, in posts and images
taken on smartphones and high-end digital cameras. When these
images are shared online, the location data is also shared and can
be accessed by other users to find the location of where the image
was taken.
An image taken at home and then shared online could reveal the
young person’s home address, even if you have not tagged your
location on the social networking site you are using. There have
even been instances where a person has posted on their social
media account that they are away on holidays, allowing clever
criminals to search through the GPS coordinates embedded in other posts and break
into their house while they are on a vacation.
Location information can also be revealed by photos (for example, a photo of a young
person in their school uniform can provide their school name and location during
the week), location-sharing apps and ‘checking in’ on social network services. This
functionality allows users to share their exact location in real time which can be great for
connecting with friends, but could be misused if it ends up in the wrong hands.
HOW CAN I AVOID POSTS/IMAGES BEING GEOTAGGED?
Geotagging can be disabled through the settings or camera options on your mobile
device. This information can be found in your device manual, on the manufacturer’s
website, or on the ThinkUKnow website—www.thinkuknow.org.au/site/geotagging
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