Speaking of Snapchat, Rick warns the youth. “Many young people are drawn into group chats to sell vapes at school for 500 euros, for example. This can range from vapes to drugs to planting bombs. That happens a lot. Don’t let yourself be drawn into the criminal world, because it is difficult to get out again,” he teaches the students. “Be sensible and talk to someone about it if this happens to you.”
The giggling and talking also quiets down when the subject of cyberbullying comes up. “We receive many reports from the police from young people who are being seriously bullied,” says Rick. “Sometimes bullying can cause the person to have thoughts of suicide. So know what you can do if you are a bully.”
Do we know how the internet works?
“A lot happens online,” says the digital police officer after class. “I don’t think that young people and many parents are aware of what is going on. That also has to do with the ease with which it is said: ‘here you have an iPad and go ahead’.”
He continues: “But do they also know how the internet works and what is stored in terms of photos and information? Little to no attention is paid to that. And they should, I think. The most important lesson I teach? Think. And stay conscious in everything you do.”
