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.