Saturn: A Trending App with Familiar Cybersecurity Concerns
But What Else is New?
Saturn: A Trending App with Familiar Cybersecurity Concerns
In recent news, the app Saturn has drawn significant attention. Designed as a tool for high school students, Saturn offers a unique calendar feature allowing students to snap a photo of their high school schedule to automatically set up their entire calendar. In addition to its core calendar functionality, the app provides a bulletin board for community activities and a feature called Countdown, offering a live look at students’ schedules.
A Brief Overview of Saturn
Established in 2018 by Dylan Diamond, an accomplished app developer, and co-founder Max Baron, a global youth-engagement entrepreneur, Saturn began its journey as a streamlined calendar app. The platform leverages publicly accessible data from school websites and the Department of Education to curate course lists. Moreover, to ensure accuracy, volunteer student ambassadors verify these pre-compiled course schedules.
Vetting Concerns
While the app promises efficiency, its vetting process has raised eyebrows. Saturn is explicitly for students, excluding teachers and parents. However, there have been instances of non-students gaining access to student schedules. The app’s sign-up process requires only a name, birthday, and graduating class, which arguably lacks robustness.
Recent controversies arose when parents voiced concerns about the potential risks this lenient vetting could pose. Indeed, the app’s current mechanism could expose students to cyberbullying, stalking, burglary, and other forms of predation. Given these concerns, it’s recommended that parents and students exercise caution when using Saturn.
A Broader Perspective on Cybersecurity in Schools
It’s worth noting that schools are no strangers to cybersecurity challenges. Even without apps like Saturn, schools often grapple with third-party agreements that promise data security. Unfortunately, many of these third-party providers fall short. A staggering 56% of high schools reported cyber breaches last year. The actual figures might be even higher, potentially reaching up to 85%.
The Real Concerns: Overreaction and Existing Vulnerabilities
Though Saturn’s concerns are valid, it’s essential to address the broader cybersecurity landscape. Many school websites and local media outlets inadvertently provide ample information that can be misused:
· Sports schedules, including student names, grades, and personal details.
· Comprehensive staff directories.
· Club activities and student participation details.
· Student accomplishments featured in local publications.
Furthermore, social media platforms, where students often share personal details, might pose greater risks than Saturn. Also, Saturn’s integration with popular social platforms like TikTok, Snapchat, and Instagram could make students’ information more accessible, but it’s crucial to remember that these platforms are already public.
Navigating the Cybersecurity Landscape: Recommendations for Parents
While it’s essential to remain informed and vigilant, it’s also vital not to panic. Here are some actionable steps parents can take to ensure their children’s online safety:
· Educate Yourself and Your Child: Familiarize yourself with app features and privacy settings. Emphasize the importance of discretion online.
· Use Privacy Settings: Check default settings and disable unnecessary sharing features.
· Regularly Review Apps: Periodically check the apps on your child’s device, removing any that are redundant or suspicious.
· Encourage Offline Activities: Reducing screen time can indirectly minimize online risks.
· Stay Updated: Keep the device’s OS and apps current to benefit from security patches.
· Employ Parental Controls: Use device features to restrict app installations or functionalities.
· Discuss Online Stranger Danger: Reinforce that online strangers can pose real-world threats.
· Secure Devices: Prioritize strong, unique passwords and consider two-factor authentication.
· Research Before Downloading: Check app reviews and ratings for potential red flags.
· Stay Informed: Keep abreast of tech and cybersecurity developments to proactively protect your child.
In the age of digital connectivity, risks are inevitable. However, by staying informed and adopting a proactive approach, we can navigate these challenges effectively without resorting to undue alarmism.
