More Teens Are Using Smartphone Apps To Keep High-Tech Secrets
PHILADELPHIA (CBS) -- The sexting scandal being investigated in Chester County highlights a growing concern around the country, leaving many parents to wonder, how is this happening so easily?
3 On Your Side Consumer Reporter Jim Donovan is here to explain how the apps on your child's smartphone may be part of the problem.
Today's teens are completely immersed in their smartphones, often using apps to communicate with each other.
"Teenagers and children are always going to be more tech savvy than parents, no matter what the generation," said CNET's Dan Ackerman.
And many teens are using that tech knowledge to keep secrets.
"These apps are perfect for kids who are trying to hide things from their parents," said Chester County District Attorney, Tom Hogan.
That includes hiding sexually explicit photos. Often referred to as vault apps, they've been around for years.
An app called "Private Photo Vault" is one of the most popular free photo and video apps in the iTunes store. But some apps aren't as easy to spot.
Today Hogan demonstrating just how easy it is for kids to hide explicit photos.
"Parents see a calculator and they think there's no problem there," said Hogan.
But there could be. An app that looks and works like a real calculator can open up to reveal hidden photos or videos as long as you enter the right password.
Hogan has a message for teens using these apps to store nude photos.
"Kids, let me tell you this, get these images off your phones," said Hogan.
He has an equally important message for parents
"Parents what do you need to do? You need to get into your kids phones, you need to pay attention. You paid for the phones, you paid for the service, you need to go into your kids phones and check," said Hogan.
This is serious business. Having or sharing explicit photos could lead to criminal charges.
So what should parents do? Wipe all apps from your kid's phone, iPad or tablet. Restore the factory settings then set a pass code so your kids can only download apps that you approve.
