#Japan #Adire Law Office #Kurume #Kenichi Nagai

Adire Lawyers Promote Student Safety in the Digital Age

On November 14, Adire Law Office, based in Toshima, Tokyo, organized a significant educational lecture titled "Avoiding SNS Trouble" at Yusei High School in Kurume, Fukuoka Prefecture. This initiative is part of their comprehensive project aimed at protecting children from the dangers of ignorance in the digital world.

Background and Purpose of the Lecture

The lecture was designed to address high school students, a demographic that is increasingly reliant on smartphones and social media. The main objective was to heighten their awareness of the unique dangers associated with the internet as well as their corresponding legal and social responsibilities. Kenichi Nagai, an attorney from Adire, led the session, discussing critical topics including the risks associated with digital tattoos, the troubling rise of illegal job offers, commonly known as "dark part-time jobs," and what actions to take if one finds themselves either a victim or perpetrator in such scenarios.

Highlights from the Lecture

Anonymity is a Myth

Nagai stressed that the presumed anonymity of the internet is a misleading concept. Once information is shared online, it can persist indefinitely as a "digital tattoo," potentially leading back to the originator of the content.

Rising SNS Conflicts and the Dangers of Verbal Abuse

Specific instances of bullying that took place on platforms such as LINE and other social media were presented. Nagai illustrated how harmless jokes can escalate to serious attacks.
He passionately emphasized, "Verbal abuse holds the power to destroy." Students were made aware that even simply liking or sharing a post can make them legally liable for defamation or insult.

The Risks of Inappropriate Videos and Dark Jobs

The lecture referenced troubling examples of inappropriate videos circulating online, such as the "Sushiro incident," which culminated in criminal prosecution and hefty damages. Nagai warned that features like "disappearing messages" or private accounts can still lead to evidence being captured via screenshots, underlining that such acts are permanent.
He elaborated on the risk associated with dark jobs, explaining that what starts as an attractive high-paying opportunity can lead students into crime, exploitation, and threats relating to their personal information. Nagai urged students to seek help by contacting hotlines like "#9110" immediately if faced with such circumstances.

The Three Promises for Preventing Trouble

It was highlighted that students aged 11 or older can be held liable for damages and that parents may also hold responsibility due to lack of supervision. Nagai introduced three crucial promises:
1. Recognize the internet as a public space.
2. Adhere to the principle of treating others as you wish to be treated.
3. Seek adult help or consult professional resources immediately if in trouble or if you become a perpetrator.

Student and Teacher реакции

### Student Representative
"Listening to the lecture made me realize the various dangers present in my everyday smartphone usage. I will be more cautious in my future online interactions."

### Vice Principal
"Observing the expressions on students' faces made it clear they recognized the serious implications of these issues—much more than many adults do. I believe this will lead us to develop better rules for using smartphones."

Reflecting on the event, Nagai expressed gratitude for the students’ engagement and encouraged them to apply their new knowledge in daily life. He remarked that the diligence shown indicated they were taking the subject matter seriously.

Future Educational Initiatives

Adire Law Office promises to continue its efforts in raising awareness about online safety, particularly targeted at young individuals who are more susceptible to digital threats. Since April 2022, over 60 educational sessions have taken place across the country to ensure that youth do not suffer loss due to lack of awareness about legal rights and responsibilities. The firm is committed to compelling outreach and collaboration with educational institutions moving forward to prevent internet-related issues.

The recent lecture was also covered by TV Nishinippon’s program "Reporting Wide News Reporters' Power", highlighting the increasing importance of such educational efforts.