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June is Safety Month
Smartphone Safety
The widespread use of smartphones helps users stay connected, but also raises privacy concerns. According to a study by the Pew Research Center, 95% of teens have access to a smartphone, and 45% say they are online almost constantly. Of course, near constant connectivity also poses a unique set of risks, for example, cyberbullying.
Another risk that has gained national attention is sexting and sextortion. The presence of cellphones has given rise to sexting as a way for teens to explore their sexuality, though in some cases these images are used against the sender as sexual blackmail.
Cellphones have changed the way we communicate. Help children and teens be safer and smarter while using their phones.
How to Talk About It
Ask:
- What do you use your phone for the most? Can you show me some of your favorite apps?
- Has anyone ever taken an embarrassing picture of you without your permission?
Reinforce:
- Expectations and guidance for when children are allowed to use their cellphones, what websites they can visit, and what apps they can download.
- The idea that anything a user sends from their phones can be easily forwarded and shared.
To access the full article provided by Netsmartz click here.