As the school year commences, it’s crucial that we have conversations with our children about the responsible use of cell phones and the internet. While technology offers undeniable benefits to our children, it also comes with potential dangers and legal implications that our children must be aware of. Let’s work together to educate our children to make safe choices in this digital age.
The Perils of Uncontrolled Cell Phone and Internet Usage:
- Cyberbullying: One of the most concerning dangers of cell phone use is cyberbullying. Encourage your children to treat others with kindness and respect online and to report any instances of bullying they come across. Remind them that their words can have real-life consequences, which can become legal consequences.
- Inappropriate Content: The internet can be a minefield of inappropriate and harmful content. Teach your children to be cautious when browsing the web and to avoid sharing content that is not age-appropriate.
- Digital Footprint: Everything we do online leaves a digital footprint. Emphasize the importance of maintaining a positive and responsible online presence. Once our children post something on social media or send a text, a “footprint” of it is created. Try as we might, footprints of what we say and do online are hard to permanently erase. Police often subpoena electronic records to establish communication patterns, connections, and potential involvement in criminal activities. Remind your children that their actions online can have lasting effects on their future, including college admissions, job opportunities and even criminal charges. Digital footprints include:
- IP Address Tracking
- Social Media and Online Activity
- Digital Communication Records such as messages and emails
- Geolocation Data
- Surveillance Cameras, Ring Cameras and Image Recognition
- Financial Transactions
- Cell Tower Data from mobile devices
- Search and Web Browsing History
- Data from Internet of Things (IoT) Devices including smart home devices, wearables, and IoT gadgets
- App Usage – including SnapChat, TikTok, Instagram, etc.
Cell Phone Usage, the Internet and the Law:
- Privacy and Consent: Remind your children about the importance of respecting others’ privacy and obtaining consent before sharing someone else’s photos or personal information. Unauthorized sharing could lead to legal issues, such as criminal charges for “doxxing” under A.R.S. § 13-2916 among others.
- Sexting and Child Pornography: Inform your children about the serious legal consequences of sending, receiving, or possessing explicit images of minors. Even if they are underage themselves, such actions can lead to serious criminal charges, including distribution of child pornography under A.R.S. § 13-3553. If a juvenile is charged as an adult, this crime carries a minimum of 3 years of prison per image when the minor depicted is over the age of 15, and 10 years when the minor is under the age of 15.
- Online Harassment and Threats: Cyberbullying, online threats, and harassment are not only wrong but can also result in criminal charges, such as harassment under A.R.S. § 13-2921, stalking under A.R.S. § 13-2923, or “revenge porn” under A.R.S. § 13-1425. Make sure your children understand that their digital actions can have severe legal repercussions.
Tips for Responsible Cell Phone and Internet Use:
- Open Communication: Encourage your children to talk to you about any concerns or uncomfortable situations they encounter online. Maintain an open dialogue to ensure they feel comfortable seeking your guidance.
- Setting Boundaries: Establish clear guidelines for cell phone and internet usage, including screen time limits and appropriate times to use phones and internet (e.g., no phones during meals or late at night).
- Parental Controls: Familiarize yourself with parental control settings on your child’s devices to monitor and manage their online activities, ensuring their safety.
- Leading by Example: Be a positive role model by demonstrating responsible cell phone and internet use yourself. Show your children that you respect the rules you’ve set and prioritize face-to-face interactions.
Conclusion:
As we equip our children with more internet-capable devices, we also bear the responsibility of guiding them to use these devices responsibly. By having open discussions about potential dangers and legal consequences, we can empower them to make wise choices, cultivate a positive digital presence, and protect themselves and others online.
In the event your child or a loved one finds himself/herself facing legal consequences due to cellphone or internet use, feel free to reach out to the attorneys at Castillo Law. You can reach us 24/7 at 602-795-6701 or 480-206-5204.