Self-destructing text messages, which disappear after being read, may have the unintended consequence of decreasing destructive behavior. The idea behind self-destroying messages was first introduced in 2014 by Ray Satow and Brett Thomson as a way to prevent data leaks that might occur if someone took a screenshot of their conversation. But it has since been found that this practice becomes more relevant for the average person when you consider how many parents have gained concern about teens sexting and sharing explicit images online.
Here are tips on how self-destructing text messages may lead to less destructive behavior?
Preventing Data Leaks
With the increasing prevalence of sexting, self destructive text messages have become more relevant. In fact, on average, one in every 10 teens have sent an explicit photo via text message. Copyright laws have also taken note of these incidents and have started to crack down on teen sexting. This has led more and more parents to be concerned about their daughters’ private texts.
Make Parents Comfortable
Self-destroying text messages may be a good way to help parents feel more comfortable about their teens’ digital footprint. When we think about the amount of data that is available online, it seems natural to want to protect and hide this important information from potential hackers and third-parties.
Empowerment Through Transparency
Self-destructing text messages may be one of the ways to empower parents and teens, while not feeling like they are being intruded upon. Transparency can help kids feel more secure in sharing their relationship with their parents.
More Trusted Than Encryption
Encryption might be one of the best ways to protect data, but most people are uncomfortable with the idea of not being able to access information that they have shared with someone. Self-destructing text messages help the person who receives them be more trusting, even if they don’t know what they have communicated to those they trust.
Less Destructive Behavior
When it comes to an adolescent’s behavior, self-destroying messages may be just the thing they need to prevent themselves from being destructive. The more they talk with their parents about the content of their text messages – as well as other forms of communication – the more they will develop a better understanding of what is and what is not acceptable in terms of behavior.
