Snapchat released an update today that now gives users the
ability to send texts and to video chat all in their "Confidential"
network that keeps the photos and now texts and videos from taking up the
usable storage on your device. With the new update they will certainly increase
their number of users and folks will find new reasons to sign up. Snapchat can
have some advantages in certain environments; however I strongly discourage the
use of Snapchat and similar apps like CyberDust specifically for the following
people or situations.
1. If you are a Teenager - Parents this one is on you. Your teenager
is going to have very compelling arguments and reasons for using the service
but for their protection I strongly advise that you do not let your child use
the app. The temptation for anyone to send a message they might regret is
increased with the illusion of safety, confidentiality, and the message
disappearing forever. However, there are apps that others can use to circumvent
the safety features and nothing stops the user on the other end from taking a
screen shot. Even if the message is not captured it can cause lasting emotional
damage or drama. Social pressures will never be the same as they are when you
are a teenager, and this is a good thing. Predators are out there but even more
so you must be cautious of people that are just mean or manipulative and can
significantly affect your life. (iTunes rates the app 12+)
2. Work relationships - If you Snapchat with a co-worker you are just
asking for trouble in the long-term. Once again the platform provides a sense
of security that can influence you to let your guard down on a scale of
morality or simply lead you to be less filtered in your interactions. This can
cause significant damage to your career. Do yourself a favor and do not
interact with people in your industry on Snapchat.
3. Any Adult / Teen relationship - Teens should not be on the
platform in the first place but let’s be honest... they are. If you are a parent, teacher,
or youth worker, you need to communicate with teenagers in a much more
transparent way. Be above reproach. I think it is obvious that there are
certain liability issues at play when talking with a teenager in a way that
cannot be monitored. Are you likely to be sent something inappropriate, yes
absolutely; there is more to inappropriate conversations than just the things
that could land you in jail. I strongly suggest that you do not use Snapchat to
interact with teenagers.
So when would I recommend Snapchat?
You can use Snapchat to communicate with family that you
like to talk with on your mobile device and don't want to use up all your
device storage with messages back and forth with that person. You can also use
the service with your best friends, ones that you have known for a while. No
matter how close you think you are with someone, if you have not known someone
for more than a year it is easy to be deceived by character. Protect yourself
and don’t use it.
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