Someone made a fake account of my child: what to do

Fake accounts that use a child's name and photos are a common form of cyberbullying. They might post embarrassing content, message classmates pretending to be your child, or be used for scams. Here's how to deal with one.

Step 1: Save evidence

Before reporting, capture:

• The profile link (copy the URL)
• Screenshots of the profile, username and photos
• Screenshots of posts and messages sent from it
• Dates and times
• Names of anyone who received messages

See how to save evidence of online harassment.

Step 2: Report to the platform

Every major platform has an impersonation report option. It's usually fastest when the person being impersonated, or their parent, reports, and you may be asked to show ID.

• Facebook and Instagram: open the fake profile, use the three-dot menu, Report, and choose that it's pretending to be someone. Meta also has an impersonation report form in its Help Center for people without an account.
• TikTok: go to the profile, tap Share or the three-dot menu, Report, then Report account, Pretending to be someone.
• Others: look for "Report", "Impersonation" or "Pretending to be someone" in the account menu or help center.

Ask friends and classmates to report it too.

Step 3: Warn people

Have your child post on their real account (or message friends) that a fake account exists and not to trust it. This limits the damage, especially if it's asking people for money or photos.

Step 4: Secure your child's real accounts

• Change passwords and turn on two-step verification. See passwords and 2FA.
• Make accounts private, so photos are harder to copy.
• Remove photos that are being copied, if your child is happy to.

Step 5: Involve the school

If classmates are behind it, or it's affecting school life, contact the school. Fake accounts used to bully are covered by the Anti-Bullying Act. See the Anti-Bullying Act and your child's school.

Step 6: Report to authorities if needed

Report to the CICC (1326), the PNP Anti-Cybercrime Group or the NBI if the fake account:

• Posts sexual or edited images of your child
• Threatens anyone
• Is used to scam people
• Isn't removed and continues causing harm

Identity theft is covered under the Cybercrime Prevention Act (RA 10175).

Supporting your child

Impersonation can feel deeply violating. Reassure your child that people who know them will know it's fake, and that you're taking action.