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For kids, the joys of friendship are often expressed in the photos they share on social apps such as Snapchat, Instagram, and WhatsApp. These types of photos -- the group shot from a day at the beach, a selfie at the DMV or the prom -- document kids' lives and strengthen relationships. But as we all know, cell phone cameras can be misused, and a new crop of photo apps are being used to hide photos instead of share them. Sometimes called "ghost apps," these secret-camera and hidden-photo-vault apps let you snap pictures or video without anyone knowing and stash them in secret folders. Use of these apps for sexting is increasing in schools, including a Denver-area school in a situation that involved hundreds of students.
Apps such as Stealth Cam, Private Ninja Cam, and Top Secret Camera can be used to spy on people. Here are some of the methods they use to deceive the unsuspecting:
Hidden-photo vaults, such as Calculator%, Keep Safe Private Photo Vault, and Best Secret Folder, are places to keep photos out of view from a prying parent or friend. They share key features, including:
Teens -- naturally seeking privacy and independence from adults -- could be tempted to experiment with these kinds of apps, such as the teen who was caught with an "upskirt" picture of his teacher. But they also might appeal to kids who don't have much to hide, so if you suspect a student of using a secret-camera app, don't freak out immediately. Instead, open a dialogue with parents and students about sexting and using phones responsibly.
Share these tips with parents to help them get the conversation going with their teens:
For even more guidance on helping teens and parents talk about sexting and using phones responsibly, check out our Sexting Handbook or our Connecting Families conversation guide and family tips sheet on sexting.