By: Emma Konn

In this Digital Era that we live in, it seems like most teenagers have a better understanding of technology than adults. Growing up with constant access to new digital tools, young people are naturally more comfortable with these changes. This presents a challenge for caregivers and providers: how can we help keep teenagers safe online while also learning about the technology ourselves? In this piece I will discuss tips for how to approach and talk with teenagers about recognizing messages that are warning signs/red flags. 

Types of Messages:

First, it is essential that we, as caregivers and providers, understand the types of messages that commonly raise red flags today. Just as it is important to educate teenagers about the risks of scams, it is equally important to discuss inappropriate messages. Below is a list of message types that should raise concern:

• Scam Messages (ex: “You have failed to pay your Spotify premium account on time. In order to retain your account, please click the link and fill in your information”)
• Messages from Strangers (ex: “I saw your profile and I think we have a lot in common, and both know Cameron, what’s your number so we can chat?”)
• Messages from Peers (ex: “I saw you around school, you’re pretty. Pics?”)

Each of these categories presents its own set of risks, so let’s explore them in more detail.

Scam Messages:

While some scam messages may seem obvious, such as a message from a “Nigerian Prince” requesting money, scams have evolved significantly with the growth of the internet. Today, scam messages can be much more difficult to identify. These messages typically attempt to trick individuals into providing personal information that can later be exploited. Here are some common things that are usually asked for: Card Information, Bank Information, Password Information, Personal/Identifying Information, etc. 

Scamming messages usually consist of a promise of a prize or gift card, a link for you to click on and input information, a promise to help you pay for something, a message that contains that there a bill unpaid, a message that there is suspicious activity on your account, a message urging you to pay the bill or the government will be after you, a message containing information about a “lost package”, etc. Most of the time these messages are fake. It is important to avoid entering personal information through links sent via text message, as this is rarely a safe practice.

Messages from Strangers:

Meeting people online has become more and more apparent over the last 10 years. However, this does not mean it is always safe for teenagers to be meeting strangers over the internet. Social media platforms, Gaming systems, Streaming platforms, and chatting services have all increased the amount of interaction that minors can interact with anyone from the internet. Unfortunately, online predators have recognized this and are targeting vulnerable individuals. The FBI estimates that there are about 750,000 child predators online. 

Online predators are using all platforms: chat rooms, social media, online gaming, etc. They often begin by engaging with a teenager around shared hobbies and interests, gradually building trust before introducing more inappropriate topics. This process tends to be slow and subtle, making it difficult for teenagers to recognize the danger.

Messages from Peers: 

Not all messages between peers are harmful; however, there is a concerning trend known as peer-to-peer sexting. Sexting involves sending sexually explicit photos, videos, or messages to another person. Sexting is one of the most rapidly growing trends amongst teens.  In the State of Massachusetts the age of consent for photos is 18 years old. This means that sending, receiving, forwarding, or saving any photos or videos of anyone under the age of 18, including yourself, is illegal. Teenagers are usually not aware of the legal implications surrounding sexting. 

Teenagers’ attitudes toward sexting can be especially difficult to address. Many teens believe sharing explicit images of peers is normal and often view it as a harmless joke between friends. Unfortunately, they may share such images in group chats, with other friends, or even post them on social media, not fully understanding the potential risks and consequences. 

How to Approach Teenagers about these Messages:

• When discussing with teenagers, approach the conversation with genuine concern rather than frustration or anger.
• Scare tactics are ineffective. People, including teens, generally do not respond well to fear-based approaches.
• Explain to them about the most common scam messages, give examples! The Federal Trade Commission has a great page on Scam Messages and how to report, see HERE.
• When bringing up Online Predators, ensure that they understand that when using the internet, people are not always who they say they are!
• Encourage them to be cautious about sharing personal information or interacting with strangers.
• Remind them of what is appropriate to post online.
• Emphasis appropriate and healthy relationships between peers. 
• Share with them the age of consent for photos in Massachusetts!
• Most importantly, have an open discussion with them and allow them to ask questions!

Raising and supporting teenagers in the Digital Era is hard. As the internet is evolving, making sure these teenagers understand how to stay safe online is important. For other resources, see our Online Safety Page.

External Sources:

Federal Trade Commission Consumer Advice:

https://consumer.ftc.gov/articles/how-recognize-and-report-spam-text-messages