How teens use technology is important to Qwest.  Over the last year, we’ve been visiting schools and conducting a survey to learn more about how teens use the Internet and wireless phones. 

The information we collected was completely anonymous and was used to better educate parents and teens about how to protect your identity and how to keep your family safer on the Internet.

For more information about Qwest’s commitment to online safety, click here.

Identify theft is the fastest growing crime in the U.S., and teenagers between 13 and 18 are increasingly popular targets.

Qwest Communications has been visiting high schools across the United States to find out how students are using the latest technologies – text messaging, webcams and social networking Web sites, among others. More than 1600 students in Minnesota, Colorado, Arizona and Washington were surveyed. Qwest is using the survey results to educate teens and their families about how to be safer on the Internet.

Findings from the 28-question survey reveal that teens share too much personal information on the Internet and make it easier for thieves to steal their identities.

Zach Friesen, identity theft victim and Qwest spokesperson, conducted the survey during educational seminars where teens answered questions through an anonymous audience response system.  During the seminars, known as Qwest Teen Councils, Friesen provides identity theft prevention tips and helps teens understand how to protect their personal information.

Watch the June 18, 2007 video news release about the Qwest teen councils: