Most students love social media. A recent Pew Survey shows that 92% of teens are online daily that 24% are online”constantly”.  Often kids use safe and smart digital practices, however sometimes students are not so smart or safe online.

When students misuse social media, it makes our phone ring. Want to know the most common mistake students make on social media?  By far the biggest blind spot for students is thinking that their intended audience is the last (and only audience who will view their message, post or image).

Even though students know that the Internet is not private, they will send an image that is intended for only one person and will be shocked when that person shares that image with others. Or they will be stunned when someone re-posts their private post. Often these re-posts contain information that damages reputations or relationships.

Part of staying safe on social media is understanding that anything you post online can be shared well beyond the intended audience. If you would say it or share it on a crowded elevator, you should probably avoid hitting send on that message.