#Japan #Nara #Nara Prefecture #Adire Law Firm #Kenichi Nagai

Preventing Smartphone and SNS-Related Issues: Legal Insights for Youth

On May 7, 2025, Adire Law Firm, based in Toshima, Tokyo, held a pivotal seminar on preventing smartphone and social media troubles at Nara Prefectural Oji Technical High School. Led by lawyer Kenichi Nagai, the seminar aimed to educate students on the legal ramifications and safety measures concerning their online interactions.

Background of the Seminar

In an age where incidents of bullying and defamation via social media are increasingly prevalent among youth, Adire responded to a request from Oji Technical High School to raise awareness among students. Kenichi Nagai shared crucial information on how to use smartphones and the internet responsibly. He employed real-life case scenarios to illustrate the legal aspects surrounding these issues, making it a relatable and informative experience for the students.

Insights Shared by Kenichi Nagai

The seminar commenced with a motivating introduction from a school representative urging students to take the content seriously and engage thoroughly with the presentation. Kenichi emphasized the idea that anonymity on the internet does not guarantee safety. He introduced concepts like the 'digital tattoo,' explaining that posts, once shared, could be permanent and visible to all, and thus potentially damaging.

He stressed that even if individuals delete harmful content, it's not a foolproof solution, as digital footprints can be traced through app analyses and other methods.

Understanding the Dual Role as Victims and Offenders

During his talk, Nagai pointed out the rising dangers facing students; many have found themselves victims of crimes after meeting strangers online or being coerced into sharing compromising images. He also highlighted how some have unwittingly become perpetrators by posting inappropriate content or bullying others online.

To mitigate such risks, Nagai advised students to avoid meeting people they’ve only interacted with online and refrain from sharing personal information. He reminded them that even at their age, they could face financial liabilities resulting from their online behavior, and he encouraged them to practice empathy and verify the accuracy of the information before sharing.

Participants' Feedback

As the seminar concluded, students expressed appreciation for the practical advice they received. One remarked how he learned the importance of verifying information rather than accepting everything at face value from the internet. A teacher echoed similar sentiments, noting that the workshop's depth and insight level were far more impactful coming from a practicing lawyer, especially concerning the legal consequences of their online interactions.

This feedback highlights the importance of integrating legal education into the curriculum to better equip students for navigating the complexities of digital life.

Continuing the Conversation

Following this event, Adire Law Firm intends to continue its mission of promoting legal literacy among youth. This includes hosting more seminars and offering internships that provide students with practical experiences in law while informing them about their rights and responsibilities.

About Adire Law Firm

Adire is dedicated to resolving various legal issues, including debt restructuring, traffic accidents, domestic disputes, labor issues, and internet-related rights violations. Adire aims to make legal advice more accessible and foster a well-informed community. Their guiding principle is to remove financial worries when seeking legal help.

For more information, visit Adire Law Firm's official site. Follow them on X and YouTube.