At Snap, fostering a safe and positive environment where people can connect with their friends and loved ones is central to our mission. That is why on the heels of Canada’s 21st annual Media Literacy Week, we are proud to introduce The Keys: A Guide to Digital Safety in Canada.

Developed in collaboration with Common Sense Media and informed by leading Canadian youth and digital literacy organizations MediaSmarts and Jack.org, The Keys is an interactive online safety course designed to help teens and families tackle real-world digital risks together.

Why Digital Safety Education Matters in Canada Now

Navigating the internet is a fundamental part of growing up, but young people face increasingly complex challenges online. And research highlights why practical, actionable education is critical for Canadian families. 

According to MediaSmarts, roughly 32% of Canadians aged 9-17 reported being targeted by cyberbullying, and research from Jack.org found that 36% of Canadians aged 16-24 rated negative comments or cyberbullying as a primary online stressor. Additionally, a report from the Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP) notes that 65% of Canadian youth say they would turn to a friend rather than a parent when being cyberbullied. Many fear losing device privileges or doubt that reporting cyberbullying is effective. 

These findings underscore a clear message: young people need practical skills rather than just lectures, and parents need constructive ways to join the conversation.

Inspired by Driver’s Education: Building Real-World Skills and Resilience

For generations, teenagers have learned the rules of the road through classroom instruction combined with behind-the-wheel practice. The Keys applies this proven approach to digital safety. The course combines educational video content with interactive scenarios. Participants learn about potential online harms and dangers associated with online harassment and bullying, non-consensual sharing of intimate images, illicit drug solicitation, and sexual extortion, and then practice how to respond safely. The course also includes references to Canadian resources for help and support.

The Keys builds on Snap's ongoing commitment to online safety, complementing existing features like Family Center, our suite of in-app parental tools, and aims to equip the next generation with the confidence and critical-thinking skills needed to thrive and flourish online.