Last month, the popular messaging app Snapchat rolled out changes to their features. The updates are cause for parents to carefully check the privacy settings if their children have access to this app.

Among the changes is the ability for others to use the Snapmap to see a user’s precise location. The Snapmap has been a feature of Snapchat for years but the feature to “enable precise location” is new. The app used to share an approximate location, but now with the update the location is accurate down to less than a metre.

This is concerning for the privacy of any user, but particularly for young people who may not be aware of features like this or how to switch them off. There is no need for strangers to see your child’s address or have the ability to interact with your child on this platform. These changes are a useful stimulus to having a conversation with your child around the risks to their identity, privacy and safety.

Safe on Social have created a free comprehensive parent guide to Snapchat for details on how to put the account on ‘Ghost Mode’, other settings to be aware of and further information. The guide is available to download here.

Safe on Social are a valuable resource for up-to-date education around digital citizenship and safety. You can follow them on social media or subscribe to their updates via email here.