What will Instagram’s ‘vanish mode’ do and is it safe for kids and teens to use?
There’s always a new feature on social media platforms that parents need to be aware of. Your children need to be able to interact and post themselves on these platforms – and these platforms have them wanting to!
One of the features which has caught the eye of many parents is Instagram’s vanish mode. This feature – much like Snapchat’s post-and-disapppear feature – allows users to send messages that disappear after they are viewed. But what exactly is vanish mode and how can parents ensure their teens are using it safely?
What is the Vanish Mode?
Vanish mode is a new feature in Instagram’s direct messaging that lets users send out disappearing messages.
Any messages, photos or videos sent in this mode will disappear as soon as they are seen by both parties and the chat is closed. This is comparable to Snapchat’s disappearing messages, which has been long popular with the younger generation for years.
Of course, this has raised some parental concerns – ranging from concerns about cyberbullying awareness to concerns about inappropriate content. That’s why knowing what the feature is – and how to engage with it with your child – is key.
What is Vanish Mode used for?
Vanish Mode is designed to offer users a way to have more private, temporary conversations. The goal of the feature is to allow users to “hear” the message in the same manner as if it were a conversation with someone in the same room, but without a record of the conversation.
Especially for teens, it can seem like more of a “real” or “spontaneous” method to chat, which is just like talking in person.
How To Use Vanish Mode
It’s important for parents to know how vanish mode works so that they can encourage their teens to use it responsibly. Here is a step-by-step explanation on how to use vanish mode, with a few tips to have a conversation with your kid:
Accessing Vanish Mode
Your teen would have to use the Instagram app on their cell phone to turn on the vanish mode. They should then tap the paper airplane icon in the top right corner of the screen to get to their Direct Messages.
They can then pick an existing chat or use one of their contacts to initiate a new chat. Note that vanish mode only works to one-on-one chats with the users they are connected to.
Activating Vanish Mode
Activating Vanish Mode for a chat is quite simple. Your teen will have to swipe down from the bottom of the screen.
As such, they will see that the screen is on a darker theme, and they may also see falling emoji animations. Vanish mode is clearly on when it is visually displayed as such. A notification will be sent to both of the users involved in the conversation, letting them know that a vanish mode has been activated in the conversation.
Using Vanish Mode
Once activate Vanish Mode, it alters the way that messages are handled. All messages, photos and videos sent during will automatically be deleted once viewed and the chat is closed.
It’s important your teen knows that, although it may be a fleeting moment, the information he or she shares may have a long-lasting effect. They should be as careful as they are when conversing as a normal person. While users will still be able to text, share photos, videos, voice messages, and stickers, they should be aware that none of these will be stored permanently.
How to Turn Vanish Mode On and Off
So, what are the solutions to control the Instagram vanish mode on various devices?
On an iPhone or Android device:
Step 1: Launch the Instagram app on the device.
Click on the message icon (paper airplane) on the top right of the screen.
- Choose a chat or chat with a new person.
- In the chat, tap and swipe up from the bottom of the screen.
- You will notice the screen switches and a message appears: You have enabled vanish mode.
- To disable, swipe again from the bottom of the screen.
A few things to keep in mind:
- For vanish mode to function, both users must be running the most recent version of Instagram.
- Vanish mode can only be used in one-on-one conversations, it cannot be used with group conversations.
- If vanish mode isn’t available, make sure both users are following each other or have previously connected.
On Instagram for the desktop:
The good news is that, for now, vanish mode isn’t available for the desktop version of Instagram. This feature is limited to mobile devices only – so you won’t have to worry about your child getting around any precautions you’ve put in place on their devices.
What are the issues regarding vanish mode?
False Sense of Security is the term used for this.
Vanish mode is intended to send messages that disappear, but as with any digital privacy, there is no absolute certainty. Users, particularly young people, may think their messages are secure and won’t be stored or shared.
But the recipient may still take a screenshot (which will be notified to the sender), or they can use other devices to take the content. Users may feel this sense of security and share information or images that they would not normally send in a regular chat in hopes of making good decisions, but unfortunately, it can turn into bad choices.
Cyberbullying and Harassment
The transient description of vanish mode messages may encourage bullies or harassers. They may be more likely to send a message that is hurtful or inappropriate, as they think there will be no permanent record.
Parents should be aware that vanish is not a mode that is inherently linked to bullying, but could be used as a tool by someone who is bullying you.
Students are not allowed to send inappropriate content, such as ‘Sexting’ via their mobile phones.
Vanish mode could be a “safe” texting and sharing of explicit photos or sexting for teens if they believe that no one will know for long.
This misunderstanding may cause hazardous activity which can lead to emotional problems, harm to reputation, or even legal problems when images of minors are shared. Even if it is a fleeting experience for some time, it’s important for parents to talk about the lasting impact of their digital actions.
The potential for secrecy and deception
Although privacy can be a benefit, too much vanish mode may signal a teen is communicating in a way that they’d like to keep secret from parents or guardians.
These might be nothing more than a harmless but awkward conversation, or it may be a peer pressure, an online predator or engaging in risky behaviors. The feature’s privacy design might inadvertently make teens feel distant from adults who are trying to keep them safe.
A preparedness for addiction to instant gratification
Vanish mode’s temporary nature can contribute to the addictive quality of social media, leading people to check their apps more frequently and act upon messages promptly. Such a “now or never” campaign to messaging could lead to higher screen time and dependency, which could affect mental health and in real-life social interaction skills.
Engaging With Your Child or Teen About Instagram
Opening and communicating with your child is an important aspect of helping them to navigate the digital world safely:
Talk about social media before or when your child starts using them, such as Instagram. Demonstrate care, concern and an interest in what they are doing and experiencing online.
Do not criticize. If your child doesn’t expect negative reactions or punishment from you, they’re less likely to talk back.
Ask questions rather than yes/no questions, such as, “What do you like most about Instagram?” or “How do you know what to post? This will stimulate in-depth writing.
Keep up-to-date with Instagram’s features and trends. This information will enable you to engage in more meaningful discussions and get a better insight into your child’s experience.
Set a good example by demonstrating safe social media use. This may involve specific time limits for devices, or awareness of what to post online.
Promote an approach to online and offline activities. Talk about the value of keeping face-to-face connections and connections online.
Let your child know that he or she can talk to you about any concerns or mistakes that they may have without fear of harsh judgment. This open-door policy is crucial for maintaining trust and communication.
Don’t Fear Tech – Become Tech-Informed
As a parent/guardian, you would like to be assured that your child is safe when using their device and when participating in online activities. However, don’t let the dangers paralyze you.
Don’t be afraid of technology; be informed and knowledgeable about it. Know the platforms and apps your child uses; aim to keep up to date with new developments and trends.
This will make it easier for discussion with your child about what he or she is doing online, and for you to keep an eye on and guide him or her to make healthy choices online.
We’re here to keep you informed and empowered regarding your child’s technology usage at Kidslox. Our parental control app enables you to supervise and track your child’s screen time, blocking inappropriate content. It provides peace of mind as your child can explore the digital world safe. Take a look at our latest guides and insight blogs to find out more about what’s happening in the digital world, and how you can help keep your child safe.
