While social media has given us more ways to connect with the wider world, some users - teen users in particular - have moved away from that openness, preferring to keep their conversations private and their interactions away from the prying eyes of their parents. This goes back to the rumors of Facebook suffering a teen exodus - and while the numbers have shown that Facebook has, at different times, lost traction among teen users, private messaging apps, most notably Snapchat, have been on the rise, which many see as a clear indicator that teens value their privacy above all else.
It's like a 'Keep Out' sign on the door - at a certain age, teens just need their space.
But while teens may want to parents to mind their own business, that also presents a challenge when we're confronted with headlines that highlight the dangers of the online world. Teens may want their own private space, but that private space is actually positioned on the world's biggest communications platform, which also enables predators to get in and bullies to get in and take hold.
This conflict is what's lead non-profit organization Rawhide to put together this new infographic which looks at how teens use anonymous and private messaging apps, and the dangers that both parents and children need to be aware of.
The infographic also includes a checklist to help parents better explain the dangers and maintain some awareness of their online activities, whilst granting them that necessary space.