Online safety: What are group chat apps?
Group chat apps are social media apps which allow users to create large groups to exchange messages.
Some well-known apps are WhatsApp, Facebook Messenger and SnapChat.
These apps allow users to send photos, text, videos and links to others in the group. Used responsibly they can be a great way to stay connected.
Online etiquette
1) Only invite people into the group if current users agree to it
2) Do not kick people out of the group. If you do not want to have contact with another user, leave the group
3) If you are unhappy with something taking place in the group, speak to a trusted adult. You may want to consider leaving the group
4) Never post your own or anyone else's personal information, even if you think you know everyone in the group
5) A good rule to stick to- only post or say things in a group chat that you would be happy for your parents to see
The dangers of group chat apps for young people:
- Some apps allow users to message people they don't know. This allows strangers to connect and can make young people vulnerable to online grooming.
- Group chats are not regulated or monitored in any way. This means users can share upsetting or inappropriate material which can be viewed by children.
- Apps which have a disappearing message function can give young people the opportunity to share more risky/inappropriate content. This content is difficult to report if has been deleted or has disappeared.
Advice for parents:
- Research any apps you or your child download to make sure you know how to use the safety and privacy functions.
- Make it normal for your child to show you the groups they are in so you can identify the other users and make sure there are aren't any strangers in the group.
- Show your child how to block and report people they don't know and talk through situations where they might need to use these functions.
- Teach your child digital etiquette so they know how to behave in the online world (see above).
