Mar 31, 2026
By Kerry Gallagher Sexting—which is defined as sending or receiving sexually explicit messages, images, or videos usually via smartphone—is becoming more common among adolescents. While it can sometimes occur within consensual relationships, it carries real risks,...
Mar 30, 2026
By Ria Mirchandani Ria is a high school student and member of the ConnectSafely Youth Advisory Council. Editor’s Note: Inspired by the conversation at ConnectSafely’s January Youth Advisory Council meeting, Ria reflects on some of the topics discussed at the meeting...
Mar 25, 2026
By Kerry GallagherEver felt like an app “tricked” you into a subscription or made it nearly impossible to delete an account? You’ve encountered dark patterns. These are intentional design choices in user interfaces meant to deceive users into doing things...
Mar 19, 2026
By Ted Selker, PhD, and Ellen Shay Reviewed by Meril Platzer, MD, a board-certified neurologist, and Sadie M. Randle, Ed.D, an autism and neurodiversity researcher and educator. Online communication can be an empowering tool for children and teens on the autism...
Mar 23, 2026
By Saihaj Sraon Saihaj is a member of the ConnectSafely Youth Advisory Council. In 1996, Congress amended the original Communications Act of 1934 with the Communications Decency Act. Embedded in that amendment is Section 230, widely hailed as one of the...
Mar 19, 2026
by Larry Magid This post first appeared in the Mercury News At ConnectSafely we’re strong advocates for keeping your online information secure. But when possible, it makes sense to choose approaches that are both secure and easy to use. Last week, someone I know asked...
