As artificial intelligence becomes more integrated into the apps young people use every day, it is increasingly important for families to understand how personal content may be used. A recent online safety update from Wayne Denner highlights a little-known Snapchat setting that parents may wish to review with their teenager.
By default, Snapchat may use certain public content, including Stories, Spotlight videos and Snap Map posts, to help train its generative AI systems. While this is outlined in the platform’s settings, many parents and young people may not be aware that the option is enabled automatically. The update encourages families to have an informed conversation about privacy, digital footprints and personal data, and to make decisions that align with their own preferences.
The video above explains what the setting does, where it can be found within Snapchat, and how users can change their preferences if they choose to do so. The focus is not on creating alarm, but on helping families understand the choices available to them and make informed decisions about how their content is used online.
The wider message is one that resonates across all social media platforms: maintaining awareness of privacy settings, understanding how data is collected and used, and regularly reviewing account preferences with children and teenagers. These conversations help develop critical digital literacy skills and support young people in becoming informed, responsible users of technology.
As a school, we encourage parents to take a few minutes to explore privacy settings together with their children and use these opportunities to discuss online safety, digital wellbeing and the responsible use of emerging technologies, including AI. Small conversations today can help young people develop safer and more confident online habits for the future.
Have a great weekend.
