Canadians participating in a popular social media trend are being urged to exercise caution, as cybersecurity experts warn the nostalgic posts could inadvertently leak sensitive personal information. The trend, which asks users to share side-by-side photos of themselves from 2016 and the present day, has swept across platforms like TikTok, Instagram, and Facebook.
The Hidden Dangers in a Nostalgic Post
Cybersecurity analyst Ritesh Kotak highlighted the significant risks associated with the seemingly harmless trend. He explained that photos from eight years ago often contain a wealth of metadata and visual clues that can be exploited. "When you post that photo from 2016, you might be revealing more than just how your hairstyle has changed," Kotak stated in an interview. "You could be showing the background of your old home, your old car's license plate, or even documents in the background that contain personal details."
Kotak emphasized that this information, when combined with other data points freely available on a user's social media profile, can be used by malicious actors for identity theft, phishing schemes, or even physical security breaches. The analyst's warnings were issued on January 19, 2026, as the trend continued to gain momentum online.
How to Participate Safely
Experts recommend several steps for users who wish to join the trend without compromising their digital safety. The primary advice is to meticulously review any old photo before posting. Users should examine the background for any visible details like addresses on mail, computer screens with sensitive information, or identifiable locations.
Cropping the image tightly around your face is one of the most effective ways to minimize risk. Additionally, consider using photo editing tools to blur any potentially revealing backgrounds. It is also crucial to check your privacy settings on each platform to control who can see your posts and download your images.
A Lasting Lesson in Digital Hygiene
This trend serves as a timely reminder of the permanent nature of digital footprints. Kotak points out that the '2016' trend is just one example of how oversharing can have unintended consequences. The information revealed in an old photo can answer security questions, provide clues to past addresses, or reveal habits and routines.
"The internet has a long memory," Kotak concluded. "What seems like a fun throwback can become a data point in a larger profile built by someone with bad intentions. Always think before you post." As social media trends evolve, this incident underscores the ongoing need for public education on data privacy and secure online practices, ensuring Canadians can navigate the digital world safely.
