Digital Safety

“Say it forget it – Write it regret it” is a good saying to remember when discussion digital safety. (The same can be said for sending any sort of picture!)

If you wouldn’t say it in person, don’t say it online. In most, if not all cases, everything that you post, share, tweet, say, or write on the internet is PERMANENT… And there’s no getting it back.


Online Dating: Important Things to Note 

  • Make sure they are who they say they are
    • Communicate using social media like snapchat, skype, instagram, facetime, etc.
  • Be cautious when sending images of yourself!
  • Don’t reveal too much personal information
    • Financial / Bank details
    • Full name & birthday
    • Social Security Number
    • Address (Be vague about where you are [from])
  • If you decide to meet in real life:
    • Always meet in a public place
    • Let someone know where you are going
      • Let a close friend or family member know where you are going, and what you plan on doing – so that if something bad happens you’re covered
  • Don’t let it affect your self image
    • Because of how superficial people on the internet can be, it has the tendency to affect mental/emotional health. Remember that people only share the best parts of their lives.

Social Media: Some Things to Remember 

  • Click on links with caution
  • Set your accounts to private
    • Talking to new people online can often be exciting but nonetheless it’s important to remember that not everyone is a “good person” and maintaining your safety should always be your first priority
  • Be selective with friend/follow requests
  • Install antivirus software
  • Keep internet browsers up to date
  • Learn to clear search history

Some Notes on Sending Sexually Explicit Messages

  • State laws surrounding sending sexually explicit messages and nude pictures can vary, but they generally follow these guidelines, and if you follow these you will be protected in any state.
    • If you are under 18, do not send nudes to anyone, no matter their age. By law, it is considered a distribution of child pornography.
    • Likewise, if you are over 18 do not send nudes to minors (anyone under 18). This is considered distributing pornography to minors, and there could be serious consequences within the frame of the law.
    • If you receive a nude without your consent, you should generally be protected as long as you don’t keep the image or share it with anyone else.
  • Remember that any Snapchats, DMs, etc. you send CAN be saved, screenshotted, and shared, so be aware that just because it disappears or is unsent, does NOT mean it can’t be saved or shared. It is better to be safe and aware than sorry when sexting or sending nudes.
  • Even in the rising age of the body positivity movement, be careful when posting pictures that could be construed as explicit. You should love and be proud of every part of your body, but should be aware about sharing it until you are of legal age!

https://www.criminaldefenselawyer.com/crime-penalties/juvenile/sexting.htm