Sites to Know
Social media sites change constantly, making it virtually impossible to keep up with current trends. General concerns parents want to be aware of are the potential for apps to link adolescents to people they do not know and capabilities for anonymous interactions.
SnapChat
A popular app that allows photo sharing, videos, and messaging. Best known for its time limited content, you can also save photos and messages indefinitely. Since messages can disappear quickly, teens use it to send mean messages and videos. Users can take screenshots of content before it disappears.
TikTok
People can create their own videos to share, such as dances and challenges, that others can like or comment on. People can "duet" the video (post a reaction), making fun of, or post negative comments about the original creator.
Picture sharing app that allows teens to follow a lot of people they know. People can be entertained following trends, celebrities, and influencers. Social comparisons can be harmful to teens as people mostly show the highlights of their life.
House Party
Video chatting app where teens can have up to eight people join their party to talk and play games. Need to be aware that anyone can join a party, even those they have never met before, if it is not locked.
Omegle
App that is set up for people to have online conversations with strangers. Can message or chat with people all over the world. There is no filter so conversations can be explicit and include topics such as drugs, alcohol, sex, and violence.
Yubo
Commonly known as the “Tinder for Teens," it’s a chat and livestream app that allows users to look at pictures of people in their area. Both parties need to swipe twice to connect, but even if they don’t a person can still send a message. A teen can friend a stranger and send private messages to them.
Ask.FM
Teens can pose questions to peers, friends, and anonymous users. There is no filter for what is asked or answered, which can lead to inappropriate and cruel responses. Has been linked to serious cyberbullying incidents.
Monkey
Allows users to set up 15 second videos with strangers. Teens can pick a topic they want to talk about and users looking for a similar chat will flash on the screen, where you can accept or reject them. The age, gender, and location are shown. No age verification for users.
Whisper
Allows anonymous users to post pictures with questions or messages that are answered anonymously. People connect based on location and interest, with responses either posted publicly or messaged privately.