Be careful who you trust online
Trusting the wrong person online can also cause you serious problems. Some young people have sent photos to new friends they believed to be their age, but in reality, they were adults with fake accounts. They asked for pictures of them, sometimes in swimsuits or simply without clothes! In such cases, it’s very important to stop the conversation and report it to a parent, a trusted adult, or a police officer. It is illegal to request a nude or sexy image from someone under 18, even if they agree during the conversation.
Disable your geolocation
Some social media platforms also allow you to geolocate, which means showing others exactly where you are. Are you at school or in your bedroom? Anyone can see and know! Therefore, it’s crucial to disable this option as soon as you open your account to prevent a malicious individual from discovering where you live.
Challenges and silly ideas
Be careful with challenges on social media. Sometimes, someone starts a silly idea and invites you to replicate it. You might pretend to sing your favorite song or even pull a prank at your school. However, keep in mind that even if the challenge is popular on social media, it could cause you problems or even jeopardize your safety and that of others. Always think before participating in such activities. When in doubt, talk to a trusted adult before acting.
The dangers of social media are real, but by staying vigilant, you can have fun while staying safe.