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As a parent in the digital age, it's important to be aware various apps and their functionalities to ensure your child's online safety. At Safeguarding First we understand that policing children’s computer and mobile usage is a complex and ever evolving art!

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To help parents everywhere, we have compiled a list of apps that we believe parents should be familiar with to understand their potential risks. This list is not exhaustive, but covers most popular apps:

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Social Media Apps - Facebook, Instagram, Snapchat, TikTok.

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These platforms allow users to share photos, videos, and messages. Parents should be aware of potential privacy concerns, cyberbullying, and inappropriate content.
 

Messaging Apps - WhatsApp, Messenger, iMessage.

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These apps enable text, voice, and video communication. Parents should monitor their child's contacts and conversations to ensure they are engaging with trusted individuals.
 

Video Sharing Apps - YouTube, Vimeo.

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These platforms allow users to upload, view, and share videos. Parents should be cautious of inappropriate content, cyberbullying, and potential exposure to harmful or misleading information.
 

Gaming Apps - Steam, Epic Games, Roblox.

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These popular gaming apps offer multiplayer experiences. Parents should be aware of in-app purchases, online interactions with strangers, and potential exposure to explicit language or content.
 

Dating Apps - Tinder, Bumble, Grindr.

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These apps are designed for adults to connect with and meet potential partners. Parents should educate their children about the risks of using these apps and the importance of age restrictions.
 

Anonymous Messaging Apps - Sarahah, YOLO, Whisper.

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These apps allow users to send anonymous messages. Parents should be aware of the potential for cyberbullying, harassment, and inappropriate content.
 

Secret Calculator Apps - Calculator%, Secret Photo Vault.

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These apps appear as calculators but function as hidden photo or file storage. Parents should be vigilant about the use of such apps to hide inappropriate content or activities.
 

Live Streaming Apps - Twitch, Live.me, Bigo Live.

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These apps enable users to broadcast live videos. Parents should be cautious of their child's privacy, potential exposure to explicit content, and interactions with strangers.
 

Anonymous Question Apps - Ask.fm, Curious Cat, Lipsi.

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These apps allow users to ask and answer questions anonymously. Parents should monitor their child's interactions to prevent cyberbullying, inappropriate content, or sharing of personal information.
 

Vault Apps - Keepsafe, Hide It Pro.

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These apps provide a secure space to hide photos, videos, or other files. Parents should be aware of the potential for hiding inappropriate content or activities.

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It is essential to have open communication with your child about the responsible use of apps and the potential risks associated with them. Discussing online safety, setting boundaries, and monitoring their online activities is key and necessary to keep them safe. We know many children find this invasive but we believe the cost of this ‘invasion’ is justified by the harm it can prevent.

 

Written 19.02.24