Understand Mobile Texting

Many of today’s cell phones are tiny computers with a number of features. Before you purchase a cell phone, understand the features, the safety precautions necessary, and the potential for problems, particularly if you are purchasing the phone for a teen, tween, or child.

Consider the features available on each model phone. What services are provided by these features? Does the higher-priced phone provide you with features you really care about? From a safety standpoint, which safeguards come with the features?

Does the mobile phone model connect to the internet? While many people responsibly use the internet, it is important to note that predators lurk on the web; these dangerous internet users could damage your phone or harass you or your child. For example, many young adults use instant messaging (IM) through their cell phone. Many IM providers require that you create a publicly-accessible profile if you are using the program. Do you really want strangers looking up your personal details, and calling or texting you?
Viruses are always a concern if you are checking your email or receiving IMs on the phone. Sometimes you are able to tell, from glancing at the URL or file name, whether the sent item is a virus. However, in many cases URLs or file names have completely innocuous names, and you wouldn’t know you are opening a virus.
Does the cell phone have GPS capabilities (a location finder tool)? While there are pros to the GPS feature – you can find lost children or adults – there is also the potential that someone may use it to locate you or your child.
Is a camera included among the features? If a young person is using the phone, a camera may not be a good idea; cameras have been used for taking inappropriate pictures or for cheating. Set rules regarding the use of cameras, or consider purchasing a cell phone without one.
Are filters available that will block harmful content? Ask your salesperson to turn the filter on (if it isn’t on by default) and set the filter to appropriate levels. What does the filter cover? Are TV programs or music files filtered? Can you set ratings restrictions on adult-content shows and music with adult themes?
Does the cell phone link to mySpace, Facebook, and Twitter, to name a few social networks? Many young adults use their phone to make spur of the moment posts on the sites. These last minute posts may not be something that they should share with the world.
Have you considered what you would do if the phone was stolen? Be sure to write down the cell phone’s serial numbers and individual information. These details are usually underneath the battery. Ask your salesperson what you would need to do if your cell is stolen. Write down the instructions, and store them in a safe place.
What do you do in the event you receive harassing phone calls? Wireless carriers have a clear set of rules and procedures. Find out these rules in advance so you are ready when it happens. Young adults often use phones inappropriately during an argument or conflict.

Mobile Texting

Texting is the newest global phenomenon, with over 40% of U.S. cell phone users texting every year. Currently, in the U.S., 81% of teenagers regularly use a mobile phone. In the past two years, the average number of phone calls has stayed the same, while the number of texts sent has gone up 566%.

It is imperative you understand mobile texting. Many young adults text at an incredibly rapid pace, resulting in a huge number of texts per month. What do you do to curb this addiction?

In order to control the number of texts sent by your child, call your wireless carrier. AT&T has “Smart Parent Controls”, which allow you to control when your young adult can text (for example, turning the texting feature on after homework time is complete) and the number of allowed texts per month. Once your young adult hits that limit, the texting capability cuts off.

Set rules regarding texting. Mobile phone texting should not take place during mealtimes, at school (they may have their cell phone confiscated), or in the evening when it is time for bed.

If your teen, tween, or young adult fails to abide by your texting rules, you may have to adopt drastic measures. Some parents do not allow mobile phone use at home while the home phone is available. Other people insist that at 9 PM, the cell phone is turned off until the next morning. Understand that texting is a global phenomenon, and you are not the first parent to be upset about it.

Understanding mobile texting is important; you need to know what the practice is, and whether you want your child – or yourself – to participate.

Conclusion

Be sure to consider all of the features available prior to purchasing a new mobile phone. Some features are beneficial and needed. Decide on the phone model you want only after considering its features. It may be a good idea to write down what you want the cell phone to be used for prior to your consideration of different models.

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