APPS PARENTS SHOULD KNOW ABOUT
SNAPCHAT
Allows users to send photos and videos that disappear after they’re received, but pictures don’t completely disappear from a device; users can take a screenshot before image vanishes.
SKOUT
A location-based dating app and website. While users under 17 are unable to share private photos, kids can easily create an account using a different age.
X
A networking site for the “public” conversations, direct messages, and can be used for bullying or harassment.
A photo/video sharing app. Profiles can be set to private, but anyone can see comments, likes, or even create fake accounts to view content and use the messaging feature.
OMEGLE
Omegle lets users chat with strangers through text or video in real-time, with no registration required. While it can be used for casual conversations, users have reported encountering inappropriate content, cyberbullying, explicit material.
GRINDR
A dating app geared toward gay, bi, and transgender people. The app gives users options to chat, share photos, and meet up based on a smartphone’s GPS location.
A messaging app that allows users to send texts, photos, voicemails, make calls, and video chats worldwide. The app uses an internet connection on smartphones and computers.
BADOO
A dating and social networking app where users can chat, share photos & videos, and connect based on location. While the app is for adults, teens are known to create profiles.
ROBLOX
An online gaming platform where users can play games designed by others or create and share their own, or chat in-app or in forums. “Gold” games are for users using “chat” to communicate if chat is blocked.
HILY
A dating app where users can browse photos, engage in chats, send private videos, and more. Based on GPS location of phone, strangers can arrange to meet up locally.
KIK
Allows anyone to contact and direct message your child. Kids can bypass traditional text messaging features. Kik gives users unlimited access to anyone, anywhere, anytime.
DISCORD
Allows users to talk to friends or strangers in real-time via voice, text, or video chat while playing games. Users have seen racial slurs, explicit content, cyberbullying, and more.
MEETME
A dating social media app that allows users to connect with people based on geographic proximity. As the app’s name suggests, users are encouraged to meet each other in person.
WHISPER
An anonymous social network that promotes sharing secrets with strangers. It also reveals a user’s location so people can meet up.
MONKEY
A live video chat app that connects users to random strangers worldwide, offering group chat and private message options. Rated for 12+, but has mild sexual content and nudity.
AMONG US
A space-themed online multiplayer social game where players can message and chat with each other.
ASKFM
Known for cyberbullying. The app encourages users to allow people to ask and chat anonymously with them in 40 different languages.
HOLLA
A video chat app that allows users to meet people all over the world in seconds.
BEST SECRET FOLDER
Specifically meant to hide photos and videos. It features password protection, decoy videos, and alarm settings.
YIK YAK
A location-based network app to connect with people around your location. It is an anonymous virtual bulletin board known for bullying.
CALCULATOR%
One of several apps used to hide photos, videos, and browser history.
TIKTOK
A social media site that also amplifies harmful material. Research and reports have shown that children can be exposed to inappropriate content—such as sexualized videos, self-harm encouragement, or dangerous challenges—within minutes of using the app.
LIVE ME
A live-streaming video app that uses geolocation to share videos so users can find out a broadcaster’s exact location. Users can earn “coins” to “pay” minors for photos.
A chat/discussion board app. Users can post whatever they want without identity verification. Reviewers have been confronted with racial slurs, explicit content & more.
Don’t Wait Until It’s Too Late
Atiwa encourages ongoing conversations with your children about social media, guidelines and the associated dangers and risks. Apps change daily, and this list is not conclusive or permanent. Call Atiwa Computing at (713) 352-7945 or contact us today for a free consultation on managed IT services and cybersecurity solutions.
