VULNERABILITIES IN THE USE OF INFORMATION TECHNOLOGIES: SEXTING AND GROOMING IN ADOLESCENTS

Abstract

New technologies play an important role in the development of society, the digital trend inclines every user to the use of communication networks for most activities. The adequate insertion of knowledge of media literacy could minimize risks, vulnerabilities and disadvantages in an irresponsible use. The present study raises two digital risks in the use of Social Networks: Sexting and Grooming. Attempting to measure in n = 240 high school students of an educational institution in Ecuador, the frequency of use and Internet access (66.7% women and 33.3% males), social networks and knowledge about these phenomena. The intent is to determine the vulnerability existing in adolescents-young people in terms of the use of ICT. Among the most outstanding results, the study showed: a considerable percentage of men (16.2%) who share intimate information in social networks with their partners, on average 10 times a month. In addition, a high level of ignorance of the context of Sexting and Grooming, 99% of active accounts in social networks and the increase of Internet use in women than male students.