Snapchat Launches 'The Keys' Online Safety Education Program

"Snapchat has launched a new digital literacy program, called "The Keys," which aims to highlight the dangers of online interaction for young users, and better equip them with knowledge on how to protect themselves, and avoid problems in social apps. "Developed in collaboration with Common Sense Media, informed by safety experts, and reviewed by members of Snap's teen Council for Digital Well-Being, this program aims to educate teens about four key risks they may face online - bullying, illicit drug activity, nude and intimate images, and sextortion - and teaches platform-specific skills for helping to stay safe on Snapchat."

"The Keys program is split into two segments, with t he first looking at online risks, and the second focused on Snap-specific functions that you can use to protect yourself the same. The full course, Snap says, takes around 45 minutes to complete. "As teens navigate through the interface, they will watch videos, go through interactive reflections, and be presented with realistic scenarios to work through and learn from. The Keys offers practical advice on what to do when faced with a difficult situation and shares helpful resources on where to turn if they find themselves facing a potential threat to their safety or well-being. ""

"Indeed, just today, a Danish research organization has accused the app of allowing drug dealers to openly operate within the platform, providing young teens with direct access to drugs via Snap messages."

The Keys is a Snapchat digital literacy program that teaches teens about four primary online risks: bullying, illicit drug activity, nude and intimate images, and sextortion. The program was developed with Common Sense Media, informed by safety experts, and reviewed by Snap's teen Council for Digital Well-Being. The course is divided into two segments: one on general online risks and one on Snapchat-specific protective functions, and takes about 45 minutes to complete. The program uses videos, interactive reflections, realistic scenarios, practical advice, and resource links. A Danish research organization has accused Snapchat of allowing drug dealers to operate on the platform, raising concerns about teen exposure to drugs via Snap messages.

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