Snapchat Launches New Safety Tools for Teachers to Protect Teens

Snapchat revealed on Wednesday its plans to unveil a suite of educational materials aimed at aiding teachers in creating safer school environments by better grasping the app’s use among students. The launch features a newly crafted website designed to guide educators in navigating the app, accompanied by a document offering strategies to safeguard students.

This initiative arises amidst increasing scrutiny from legislators towards Snapchat and similar social platforms for their perceived shortcomings in safeguarding young users. Additionally, concerns regarding the potential significant impact of social media on adolescent mental health have been raised by mental health professionals highlighting these platforms as a key area of risk.

With over 20 million teenagers in the U.S. actively engaging with Snapchat, a study from Pew in 2023 positions Snapchat as the third most favored app among this demographic. Snapchat’s latest move introduces numerous safety features into educational settings, an effort distinctively marked by Wednesday’s announcement.

Termed the “Educator’s Guide to Snapchat,” the website offers an explainer on the app’s functionalities and an outline of Snapchat’s safety mechanisms. It also provides downloadable content that educators can utilize in discussions with parents or counselors to navigate online challenges students might encounter, such as cyberbullying or sextortion.

Aiming to empower educators in supporting their students’ well-being, Snapchat has developed a specialized resource document. This guide is filled with actionable advice on promoting online safety, drafting social media policies for schools, tackling sextortion, among other protective measures.

Furthermore, Snapchat has introduced a feedback form tailored for educators. This platform enables them to report on the app’s usage within their schools and convey their insights directly to the company.