Taking a Screenshot

Most phones, computers, and tablets allow you take a picture of whatever is on the screen. This is called a “screenshot.” A screenshot will only capture what you can see on your screen, so you may have to take multiple screenshots to capture everything. For example, you will generally need to take multiple screenshots to capture a text messages conversation. Some devices allow for a scrolling screenshot, however, where you can scroll down and capture the entire thread or content of a page in one image. Search online for “how to take a screenshot on [name of your device] to learn more.

Some apps, such as Snapchat, will notify the sender if you take a screenshot of their image or message. In the case of abusive or threatening behavior, a notification that the content has been preserved might escalate the behavior. Do what you believe is safest for you.

Taking a screenshot can be slightly different for each device, but you can watch our video on How to Take a Screenshot to see generally how to take a screenshot on a computer or a smartphone. You can also do an online search for “How to take a screenshot on a [your specific phone or tablet]” for instructions on how to take a screenshot on your device.