Wake up Wednesday – Snapchat

 

 

 

 

 

With over 900M monthly users, Snapchat is still a top app for kids and teens — but its features are evolving fast, and so are the risks.

What to Watch Out For:

  • AI Chatbots & Filters: Cool tech, but can expose kids to unsafe content.
  • Disappearing Messages: Hard to track, easy to misuse.
  • Snap Map: Real-time location sharing = privacy risk.
  • Lens+ Subscription: Fun AR lenses, but encourages spending & screen time.
  • Web Access: Snapchat now works in browsers — harder to monitor.

⚠️ Emerging Dangers:

  • Sextortion Scams: Often target boys. Starts innocent, ends in threats.
  • Overuse & Addiction: Snap Streaks = pressure to stay online.
  • Inappropriate Content: Not everything gets caught by moderation.

‍ Expert Tip from Dr Claire Sutherland:

  • Talk openly with your child.
  • Use Snapchat’s Family Centre.
  • Teach digital resilience & critical thinking.

Stay informed. Stay safe. Help young people enjoy Snapchat responsibly.

 

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