Snap Inc. has launched “The Keys: A Guide to Digital Safety,” an interactive online safety program designed for teenagers and their parents. The initiative comes as students return to school and spend more time online, increasing their exposure to digital risks.
Developed in partnership with Common Sense Media and reviewed by Snap’s teen Council for Digital Well-Being, the program focuses on four main risks teens may encounter online: bullying, illicit drug activity, nude and intimate images, and sextortion. The guide also teaches platform-specific skills for staying safe on Snapchat.
According to Snap Inc., “The Keys” was inspired by drivers education programs that combine classroom learning with practical experience. Similarly, this new program aims to help teens recognize potential dangers online and practice responding to realistic scenarios.
Many parents in the United States have expressed concerns that their children lack the necessary knowledge and skills to navigate digital platforms safely. They have indicated a need for interactive resources like “The Keys” that go beyond traditional educational materials.
The 45-minute course is flexible; participants can complete it in one sitting or pause and resume later. It features videos, interactive reflections, and practical scenarios. Teens are given advice on handling difficult situations and information about where to seek help if they face threats to their safety or well-being.
“The Keys” is divided into two sections: one addressing general online risks across various platforms—including bullying, illicit drug activity, nude images, and sextortion—and another offering a tutorial on Snapchat’s safety features, settings, and reporting tools.
“”— Jacqueline Beauchere, Snap’s Global Head of Platform Safety
