Staying Smart Online
OPSEC stands for Operations Security, but you don’t need to remember that. What matters is this:
OPSEC means not giving people information they can use against you or your family.
Most problems don’t come from one post. They come from patterns—lots of small details shared over time that let someone figure out who you are, where you go, and when you’re vulnerable.
Why This Matters for Teens
Teens share more online than any other group. That makes you a target for:
- Stalkers and creeps
- Scammers and identity thieves
- People trying to dox, harass, or intimidate
- People who just want to cause problems
Most of these people don’t look dangerous. Some act friendly. Some pretend to be your age.
OPSEC helps you stay ahead of that.
Real Social Media Examples (This Is Where People Mess Up)
❌ Posting in Real Time
Bad:
“Game night at the mall 🔥” (posted while you’re there)
Why it’s a problem:
Now strangers know exactly where you are right now.
Better:
Post after you leave—or not at all.
❌ Accidentally Sharing Location
Bad:
- Snapchat map on
- Instagram “Check In”
- Fitness app posting routes
Why it’s a problem:
People can track your habits, not just your location.
Better:
Turn off live location sharing and review app permissions.
❌ Background Clues in Photos
Bad:
- Street signs
- School logos
- License plates
- House numbers
- Inside your room showing layout or valuables
Why it’s a problem:
People don’t need your address if they can figure it out.
Better:
Crop, blur, or don’t post.
❌ Talking About Family Plans
Bad:
“Finally heading to the beach for a week 🌴”
Why it’s a problem:
You just told the internet your house will be empty.
Better:
Post vacation pics after you’re home.
❌ Sharing Too Much in DMs
Bad:
Answering questions like:
- “What school do you go to?”
- “Are your parents home?”
- “Where do you usually hang out?”
Why it’s a problem:
These questions are often tests.
Better:
You don’t owe anyone answers.
Online Games & Group Chats
People forget this part, but it matters a lot.
- Don’t share your real name, school, or location
- Don’t trust voice chats automatically
- Don’t click links from people you don’t know
- Don’t download “mods,” “cheats,” or “free skins”
Scammers and predators use games because people feel relaxed there.
OPSEC Rules That Actually Work
You don’t need 100 rules. These cover most situations:
- Don’t post where you are in real time
- Don’t share routines
- Don’t talk about family plans
- Don’t assume privacy settings = private
- Don’t answer personal questions just to be polite
- If it feels off, stop and ask
What to Do If Something Feels Weird
If someone:
- Keeps asking personal questions
- Pushes you to move chats off the platform
- Wants photos or info you’re unsure about
- Makes you uncomfortable
Then:
- Stop responding
- Screenshot everything
- Tell a parent or trusted adult
You will never get in trouble for speaking up.
One Question to Ask Before You Post
“Could this help someone understand my life, my routine, or my family?”
If yes—and it’s not necessary—don’t post it.
Bottom Line
Being smart online isn’t being paranoid.
It’s being in control.
OPSEC helps you protect:
- Yourself
- Your family
- Your future
Once information is out, you can’t take it back.
Think first. Post later. Or don’t post at all.
Download sheet
See also
OPSEC for Teens
OPSEC for Kids
Operations Security (OPSEC): Don’t Become the Target (in-depth article)