Would you know if your child was being groomed online? 😓

IN THE NEWS
Today’s Top Tech 📲

💻 “Coding Is Dead”? | The University of Washington’s top computer science program says traditional coding is being replaced by AI, but that doesn’t mean tech jobs are gone. Students now need to learn to solve complex problems with AI, not compete against it. Remind your kids: it’s not just about knowing tools. It’s about curiosity and learning how to think. Here’s what students need to know.

🚫 AI “Nudify” Sites Are Making Millions | Websites using AI to strip clothes from photos are raking in up to $36M a year, with millions of users each month. As AI abuse grows, talk to your kids about image-based harm, consent, and why just because you can doesn’t mean you should.

📱 Don’t Share Your Real Number | Your phone number can reveal more than you think. Instead of giving it out to strangers on apps, resale sites, or flyers, try a second number through services like Google Voice. It’s safer, more private, and works like a normal phone. Teach your kids this easy privacy tip—it’s a digital boundary worth setting early.

🔓 Elmo’s X Account Hacked | Hackers took over Elmo’s official X account, posting racist and antisemitic content before Sesame Workshop stepped in. The account, known for mental health support and positivity, has 650,000+ followers, including many families. Use this moment to talk with your kids about account security (strong passwords and two-factor) and the risks of online impersonation.

🕶️ Viral “Aura Farming” Dance Goes Global | An 11-year-old from Indonesia, has taken over TikTok with a boat-racing dance full of confidence and charisma, aka “aura.” Pro athletes from Travis Kelce to PSG have joined in. While the trend is positive, it’s a great reminder to talk with kids about viral fame, digital footprints, and staying grounded when the internet takes notice.

THE TECH TRANSLATOR PODCAST
This Is How Grooming Starts 🚨

Constable Ryan Gable leads one of the nation’s top Internet Crimes Against Children (ICAC) units, and in this gripping episode of The Tech Translator, he reveals how predators are using social media, gaming, and even AI to target kids.

You’ll hear real sting operation stories, how grooming works, and the one thing every parent needs to do before giving their child a phone.

Catch the full interview now → YouTube | Spotify | Apple Podcasts

NEW AND IMPROVED
Should My Child Be on Snapchat? 👀

According to Pew Research, over half (55%) of US teens report using Snapchat, but do you really know what’s happening inside the app?

We just released a brand new four-part video series for families that unpacks everything parents need to know about Snapchat: how it works, why it’s so sticky for teens, and what safety features (and risks) you should be aware of.

From snap streaks and disappearing messages to a hidden photo vault and AI chatbot, this series gives parents a clear, honest look at the good, the bad, and the ugly. It’s loaded with practical tips for your family.

If you want to talk with the young people in your life about Snapchat, we even have conversation starters to help you begin the conversation.

PROTECH CURRICULUM
Simple Lessons Every Student Should Know About the Internet 😊

From gaming obsession to online identity theft, today’s kids are facing real digital challenges, and they need tools to navigate them.

Our newest upper elementary video series tackles tough topics like doxxing, digital balance, online plagiarism, and oversharing, all in student-friendly episodes made for classroom use and at-home conversations.

These videos are now live on the Parent ProTech platform for both educators and families.

POWERED BY TROOMI
Free Kid-Safe Smartphone? Yes, Please. 👍

Looking for a safe first phone for your child? Troomi phones were built with families in mind, giving kids the freedom they want and parents the control they need.

Best of all, Troomi is offering a FREE smartphone for members of the Parent ProTech community just in time for school! You only have to pay for the one-time activation fee and the monthly service.

A Troomi phone includes:

✅ GPS tracking
✅ Contact + text monitoring
✅ App control + content filters
✅ Distraction-free boundaries for class time

Troomi is the ultimate back-to-school tech upgrade.

Use the code “PROTECH” at checkout to claim your free Troomi phone today!