Snap Inc. has launched a new interactive online safety program called “The Keys: A Guide to Digital Safety,” aimed at teenagers and their parents. The initiative comes as students return to school and spend more time online, which can increase exposure to digital risks.
Developed in partnership with Common Sense Media and informed by safety experts, the program was also reviewed by Snap’s teen Council for Digital Well-Being. “The Keys” addresses four main online risks: bullying, illicit drug activity, nude and intimate images, and sextortion. It is designed to teach teens how to identify these dangers and respond appropriately, with a focus on practical skills specific to Snapchat.
According to Snap Inc., many parents in the United States remain concerned that their teenagers do not have enough knowledge or skills to safely use online platforms. They have expressed a need for an interactive safety resource like “The Keys.”
“The Keys” draws inspiration from drivers education programs, combining instruction on identifying risks with realistic scenarios for practice. The 45-minute course is flexible, allowing users to complete it in one sitting or over multiple sessions. Teens engage with videos, interactive reflections, and scenarios that help them learn how to handle difficult situations online. The program also provides advice on what actions to take when faced with threats and where to seek help if needed.
The guide consists of two parts: one section covers general risks teens may encounter across various digital platforms; the other offers a tutorial on Snapchat’s safety features, settings, and reporting tools.
Jacqueline Beauchere, Snap’s Global Head of Platform Safety, stated:
“”
