From the hidden dangers of fentanyl-laced drugs to the manipulative tactics of online predators and the growing influence of AI companions, teens are facing risks that can have life-altering consequences. What makes these threats even more concerning is how easily they blend into everyday online experiences like social media, gaming, and chatting with friends. In this SmartSocial guide, we’ll break down the top concerns every parent should know about — and offer practical steps to help you guide your child toward safer, healthier online and real-world choices.

Fentanyl, Predators & AI Chatbots (Parent video)

Top Concerns of Fentanyl

• Exposure to drugs like fentanyl, has claimed lives and affected many communities
• Fentanyl is incredibly potent, with just two milligrams being enough to be fatal
• This danger is exacerbated as this drug can be clandestinely added to others, making it a silent threat
• Drugs can be procured through seemingly innocent channels like social media and gaming platforms
• Dealers may falsely advertise their products as “clean,” convincing our youth of their safety
• Parents should talk to their children about the dangers and consequences of these substances
• For more information about how to help your child avoid the dangers of drugs online, read Avoiding Strangers and Dangerous Situations Online

Recognizing Predator Tactics

• Online predators employ sophisticated tactics to manipulate and exploit vulnerable children and teens online
• Tactics predators might use:
  • Urge kids to use vanishing modes on apps to erase the record of communication
  • Encourage kids to create alternate social media accounts (that their parents are unaware of and are not tracking)
  • Predators will insist they understand a child when no one else does, creating a sense of closeness and support
  • Some online predators will coerce a teen to send personal and inappropriate photos with threats of exposure
• It is important for parents to discuss the potential dangers of communicating with strangers online
• Children should be made aware of what personal information they should never share online with anyone
• Parents should remind kids to never send nude or inapporpriate photos to anyone online. The consequences could lead to legal problems, financial sextortion, or cyberbullying

AI Companion Dangers

• There are concerns about students developing “relationships” with AI entities, diverting attention from their studies and real-life interactions. Schools note a troubling trend of students forming dependencies on AI “friends"
• AI chatbots are software programs designed to simulate human conversation, allowing users to interact with them through text or voice in a way that feels like talking to a real person
• Powered by artificial intelligence, these chatbots can understand and respond to a wide range of questions or prompts, giving human-like responses
• Teens might use AI chatbots for a variety of purposes, including seeking advice, getting help with schoolwork, or just for entertainment. However, there are many chatbots that easily veer into X-rated content
• Teens going through a difficult emotional time may be especially vulnerable to withdrawing from real family and friends and susceptible to dangerous content or suggestions
• It's important for parents to have conversations with their children about the value of face-to-face relationships and the importance of focusing on their education and real-world interactions
• To find out more about AI Chatbots, read AI Chatbots: What Parents Need to Know

Additional Resources

Drugs on Social Media: What Parents Need to Look Out For

What is Chroming? A Dangerous TikTok Challenge

What Parents Need to Know about Vaping

Disappearing Messages: The Hidden Dangers Parents Need to Know

Conclusion

As online trends evolve, so do the risks facing our children. From fentanyl exposure to online predators and AI companions, staying informed and having open conversations is key. By building trust and encouraging real-world connections, parents can help their kids navigate these challenges safely and confidently.