Kamso Oguejiofor-Abugu
Published on: August 22, 2023 
The Saturn app, a platform designed for high school students to share schedules, chat, and plan social events, is under scrutiny from parents, cybersecurity experts, and school officials due to potential security vulnerabilities.
Concerns have been raised about the app’s ability to link to users’ TikTok, Snapchat, and other social media accounts. Additionally, the app’s open registration system has been flagged as a potential risk, allowing anyone to create a profile, even if they aren’t a student.
In response to these concerns, Saturn Technologies recently implemented a verification process, requiring users to register with a school email to access class details and student profiles. This move aims to ensure that only genuine students can create profiles linked to specific schools.
However, Thomas Russell, a cyber education program manager at the National Cybersecurity Center, expressed skepticism about the app’s security measures. He highlighted the potential risks of stalking, identity theft, and data breaches. “Right now, I can join and easily mock some type of school email because I know the patterns of the school emails locally,” Russell said.
Dr. Matt Kuhn, Chief Technology Officer for Volusia County Schools, echoed these concerns, stating that the app poses a safety risk, especially when sharing schedules. “Student schedules are private information between the parents and the students in the school,” he said. Kuhn also pointed out that, despite the app’s claims, many have managed to bypass its verification process. “We’ve seen many people get on the site that are 40 years old,” he added.
The Saturn app’s developer website counters these concerns, stating that students have the option to share their information only with friends or keep it entirely private. They also emphasize that the platform is designed exclusively for active high school students.
Despite these assurances, several school districts, including Volusia, Brevard, and Seminole counties, have taken steps to block the app on school networks and devices.
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- Source: https://www.safetydetectives.com/news/saturn-apps-rising-popularity-among-students-sparks-safety-concerns/
