24 Secret Texting Abbreviations Every Parent Needs to Know

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In the ever-changing world of technology, it can be more difficult than ever for parents to keep up with the slang, lingo, or acronyms kids are using these days — let alone the different devices they're chatting on. That makes it harder than ever for moms and dads to figure out if and when children are engaging in any kind of dangerous behavior, such as drugs or texting with strangers. With the rise of cyberbullying and sexting, there are certain things parents gotta know to help keep their kids safe! We've compiled a list that will certainly give worried parents the "411" (that's code for info). 

Much to every parent's dismay, expert Katie Greer points out there truly is "no magic list" of slang or texting terms. She even goes on to say that before the age of social media, this undoubtedly would have been a less daunting task. Because new slang gets invented every day and old slang gets outdated quickly, it will always be a little tricky to make a list that's definitive. 

However, we ventured out and put together a list of 24 "red flag" abbreviations still in use (for now) and that ultimately may require a parent to intervene if seen via text or social media. Letting a child have a cell phone is a frightening thing, for sure, but if kids are going to text their friends, it can be helpful if parents are clued in a little. Take a look at this list and see of there are any warning signs.

ASL

This is an age-old acronym still in use. It stands for age-sex-location and was typically used on chat programs such as AIM. The alternative spelling is ASLP — requesting a photo.

This is the ultimate sign of stranger danger, so don't be afraid to dig a little.

DOC

Worry, worry, and more worry! Whether your child is just wanting to sound cool or is actually experimenting with drugs — sit him or her down for a talk and then some.

KPC

Here's a clue: They aren't wanting to keep you clueless for a good reason. Get your PI on — "Parental Investigation," that is — if you see your kid using this one.

LMIRL

There's no sugarcoating the dangers of this one. If your child is sending or receiving this text, the likelihood that he or she is talking to strangers is high. The safest bet is to intervene.

PAL

This one may be slightly less worrisome, as it could literally just be teenagers being teenagers — wanting to whisper sweet nothings without your hearing it. 

So taking action on this may be a case-by-case decision.

NIFOC

You may have told your children 1,000 times that what they put onto the Internet is FOREVER — doesn't change the fact that they somehow feel invincible. 

Perhaps this is when computer guidelines come into place — such as not allowing a computer in their room or something of that nature. 

CU46

This jumbled coding stands for "See you for sex." Depending on circumstances (age and so on), this just may not be a punishable offense but more so an opportunity to speak to your child (if you haven't already).

CID

Be very aware! This jumbled-up coding stands for acid. And, on that note, need we say more?

IWSRN

This may not necessarily mean your child is partaking in sexual activities, but it can't hurt to ask. Right?

THOT

Perhaps, upon seeing this word, you might focus your talk on the subject of bullying — whether this term be directed at your kid or a peer.

420

ICYMI (that is, in case you missed it), 420 is code for marijuana and derives from National Marijuana Day on April 20.

304

Another old one that's still relevant today. The numbers stand for the term "hoe" and can only be seen if typed into an upside-down calculator.

GYPO

It might seem pointless to take your pants off via text, but this is one way to initiate sexting or inappropriate photo taking.

GNRN

Look out — another acronym to initiate sexting.

GNOC

And, another … except this one is far more obvious — and scary!

53X

This code — 53x — simply translates to "sex."

TINA

Don't let the sweet name fool you. Tina is an alternative name for meth — a manmade drug that is made from "battery acid, drain cleaner, lantern fuel, and antifreeze."

Sugarpic

Initially, we thought this had something to do with being a sugarbaby, but nope — the term simply means "sexy pic." As in — send one!

1174

This decodes into "party meetup" — which may or may not be harmless partying. Have you talked to your kids about the dangers of underage drinking, drinking and driving, and casual drug use?

PRON

Pron is code for porn — not super creative but enough to throw you off. Perhaps this will serve to be an educating moment instead of a punishable one.

Parents Are Watching

Err on the side of caution with this one — if your children are skeptical about doing things in front of you, there's a good chance they could be hiding something.

PIR

This seems to be a common code with plenty of synonyms — Parent in Room, Parents Are Watching, etc.

MOS

Again, this may just be some silly conversation your child doesn't want you witnessing — use your discretion here and make the best call possible.

S2R

Be aware. "Send to receive" is a request for a photo.