FACETIME
|
MINIMUM AGE: 13+
WHAT IS IT? FaceTime is Apple’s video and audio calling app that allows users to connect with friends and family using Wi-Fi or mobile data on iPhones, iPads, and Macs. It supports group calls with up to 32 people, screen sharing, and SharePlay, which lets users watch videos or listen to music together during a call. FaceTime also includes features such as video effects, reactions, spatial audio, live captions, and the ability to send video or audio messages if someone misses a call. Calls can be started using a phone number or Apple ID, and users can invite others to join through a FaceTime link, even if they don’t use an Apple device. WHAT WE SAY: Treat with Caution 🔞 Exposure to Inappropriate Behaviour FaceTime allows private video and audio calls, including group calls with up to 32 people. If children are calling people they don’t know well, they may still be exposed to inappropriate language, behaviour, or images during live video chats. 🔐 Privacy Considerations FaceTime calls are end-to-end encrypted, which helps protect conversations. However, calls are made using a phone number or Apple ID, meaning children could potentially receive calls or invitations from contacts outside their trusted circle. 📢 Open Calling Features If a child has access to FaceTime on their device, they can easily make or receive calls, share FaceTime links, and invite others to join a call. These links can also allow people without Apple devices to join through a web browser. 📱 Cyberbullying and Peer Pressure Group FaceTime calls can sometimes be used to exclude, tease, or pressure others. The ability to share screens or react with visual effects may also encourage unwanted behaviour if children are not using the app responsibly. 🧑💻 Contact With Strangers Because FaceTime calls can be started using a phone number, Apple ID, or shared link, it is important for children to only accept calls from people they know and trust. 🧠 Screen Time and Well-Being Frequent video calls, especially late at night, may affect sleep, concentration, and overall screen-time balance for young users. 💬 Messaging and Shared Content FaceTime works alongside Apple messaging features and allows users to share screens, watch videos together with SharePlay, and send video or audio messages if a call is missed. These tools are helpful but should still be used responsibly. |
SAFETY TIPS:
📲Understand the app - Familiarise yourself with FaceTime’s features and how it works. The app allows users to make video and audio calls, join group calls with up to 32 people, share screens, and send video or audio messages if a call is missed. Understanding these features can help you guide your child safely. 👨👧 Parental supervision - Be aware of who your child is communicating with and review their contact lists and device settings. Staying informed about the apps children use can help you spot potential risks early. 📢 Account and contact safety - FaceTime works using a phone number or Apple ID, which means anyone with those details could potentially try to call your child. Make sure children only share their contact information with people they know and trust. 👥 Manage contacts - Encourage your child to only answer FaceTime calls or accept invitations from people they know in real life. Remind them not to join calls from unknown numbers or links. 📷 Be mindful of the camera - Remind children that anything visible during a video call can reveal personal information. Background items such as school uniforms, street signs, or family photos may unintentionally share location clues. 🧠 Trust your instincts - If a conversation feels uncomfortable or inappropriate, encourage your child to end the call immediately and speak to a trusted adult. 🖥️ Place devices in shared spaces - Encourage children to use FaceTime in shared areas of the home rather than bedrooms, making it easier to supervise their online interactions. 🙋♀️ Conversations - Talk regularly with children about online safety topics such as cyberbullying, peer pressure, privacy, and how to block or report someone if needed. 🚨 Know the signs of trouble - Watch for behaviour changes such as secrecy around devices, anxiety after calls, mood swings, or suddenly deleting contacts or apps, as these may indicate a negative online experience. FURTHER SUPPORT: For parents/ carers If you're worried about your child or need support call NSPCC helpline on 0808 800 5000. If you see suspected child sexual abuse content online, report it to the police or the Internet Watch Foundation (IWF), which helps remove illegal images from the internet. If you’re worried about online sexual exploitation or abuse, you can make a report to Child Exploitation and Online Protection Command (CEOP) - a UK law enforcement team dedicated to protecting children and young people online. For Children & young people if they're worried or want to talk, encourage them to contact Childline Online or call 0800 1111. Check out our Factsheets for further information and useful online safety tips. 
|
