One of the most popular smartphone apps of 2018, Snapchat makes it easy to share images and videos. Any message you send lasts for a maximum of 10 seconds before getting erased from your device.
Some people take advantage of kids by asking them to send inappropriate pictures and it has become a major concern for most parents. Since it isn’t possible to read the texts afterward (due to auto delete feature), how can parents monitor Snapchat Accounts?
Talk to your Teens
Contents
Teens can easily be manipulated. They like to ‘try things out’ and sometimes all they need is parental guidance. The app itself is not bad. Users are the ones turning it into a tool to harass others. As a parent, you want to make sure your teen understands the repercussions of cyberbullying. Teach them to be responsible and to respect their privacy, as well as that of other people.
Be in Control
This might seem intrusive, but having the logins ensures that you know what your teens are up to. Look at it as a way of protecting them rather than spying on them. After all, hackers and identity thieves can access your kids’ device and this makes things worse. Checking the screenshots and camera rolls prevents bad influence or indecent exposure.
Invest in Monitoring Software
There are various types of apps you can use to spy snap and check the contents that your kid is sending or receiving via Snapchat. The top four are:
1. mSpy
This app can spy on any social media platform from anywhere. It makes tracking easy and you can access what your teen is posting through the dashboard. You can even locate the whereabouts of your kid anytime.
2. TeenSafe Control
You can restrict the apps you don’t want you kid to access. This software allows parents to set a time limit on Snapchat, for instance, you can lock it when your child has assignments to complete.
3. Netsanity
A parent can use this software to block inappropriate photos from Snapchat and screenshots. If you have a strict study time and bedtime, you can disable internet access so that your teen completes follows the routine
4. FlexiSpy
This gives you access to all the photos, videos and messages shared on Snapchat. This allows you to check if your kids are involved in any suspicious activities or if they are a target.
Conclusion
Teens are stealthy when it comes to technology. They can easily bypass any restrictions and unblock apps like Snapchat. Before blocking Snapchat or monitoring their Snapchat accounts, have a real conversation with your kids. Explain the risks they might face if they post inappropriate content.
If you agree to the use of Snapchat, it is advisable to sit down with your kids and go through the settings together. Scroll down to the ‘Who Can’ section and fill it out together. The choices you make now will influence how they interact on any social media.
Important note: Let your kids know that you understand the importance of social media. Explain how you love and care for them and that you won’t let anyone take advantage of them.