It’s almost impossible to keep up with all the latest updates in technology, but when it comes so easily to our children, it’s important to be as informed as possible.
This is why authorities are urging parents to be vigilant, following the launch of what many are calling a ‘dangerous’ new feature on Snapchat.
Snapchat has just launched its ‘Snap Maps’, which enable users to share their exact location with followers.
This new feature is said to connect to your GPS, automatically displaying your location to anyone on your friends list. Worryingly, depending on how public your profile settings are, the general public may be able to locate you, too.
Now, there is a way around this – if you switch your status to ‘ghost mode’, your location won’t automatically share. However, it means that you need to be even more vigilant when it comes to your online security.
As you can imagine, the new feature has left many people worried about their safety – parents of avid Snapchatters, in particular.
Uhhhh am I the only one that thinks the Snap Map is dangerous?
— Celi Southpaw (@celisircy) June 23, 2017
Snap map is a pretty egregiously dangerous feature for an app used mostly by kids.
— Randi (@_MissRandi) June 25, 2017
@Snapchat PLEASE remove the snap map, it's INCREDIBLY dangerous. So many kids use this app. If it isn't removed soon I will leave. #snapmap
— GalaxyPuffin (@lord_malamute) June 23, 2017
“Don’t understand the function of Snap Map. It’s extremely invasive and dangerous,” tweeted one user.
Another chimed in: “Has no one realised how dangerous this new Snap Map is? Tonnes of kids with their whereabouts, totally accessible?”
Thankfully, the authorities are a step ahead when it comes to online safety, and the Preston Police have issued a warning for parents.
PCSO Jack shared a photo demonstrating the power of the feature, writing: “As you can see, here is my character currently in the police station.
“Obviously, this may cause concern for certain users, particularly those who have young children who use the app.
“To change the settings, pinch the screen when the app is open and this will load the map. When you do it for the first time, it should ask you if you want to activate ghost mode. “
While Snapchat bosses were thrilled with the unveiling of the new feature, they have been forced to issue a statement regarding the safety risks of the Snap Map.
“The safety of our community is very important to us, and we want to make sure that all Snapchatters, parents and educators have accurate information about how the Snap Map works,” a rep said.
They went on to reiterate that the location-sharing feature is ‘off by default’ for all users, and ‘completely optional’.
“Snapchatters can choose exactly who they want to share their location with, if at all, and can change that setting any time.
“It’s also not possible to share your location with someone who isn’t already your friend on Snapchat, and the majority of interactions on Snapchat take place between close friends.”
Be sure to swat up on the latest feature, and to take appropriate safety steps with your child.
