PLINK
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MINIMUM AGE: 13+
WHAT IS IT? Plink is a mobile app and website designed as a social network and matchmaking platform for gamers. It helps players find others to play cooperative games with by matching users based on their gaming profiles and preferences. Once matched, users can chat through private or public messaging and connect their gaming accounts to organise games together. The app offers both free and subscription-based features, including advanced matchmaking filters, profile customisation, and priority matching. Users can also send in-app gifts to other players. Plink requires users to create an account and connect at least one gaming platform, and it is intended for users aged 13 and over. voice chat, f WHAT WE SAY: Treat with caution. Most parents and carers do not check this app because it is associated with gaming. 🎮 Gaming-Focused Social Platform Plink is designed specifically for gamers and helps users find teammates to play cooperative games with. It connects people based on their gaming interests, which can introduce children and young people to strangers online through matchmaking features. 🔗 Linked Gaming Accounts To use the service, users must connect at least one gaming platform or third-party account. Linking accounts (such as gaming profiles) may expose usernames, gaming activity, or other profile information to other users. 💬 Direct Messaging with Strangers When two users match, they can start private chats and interact in public chat spaces. Like any messaging platform, this creates the possibility of inappropriate conversations, harassment, or contact from strangers. ⚠️ Limited Moderation Risks Because users can communicate freely in chats and comments, there is potential for toxic behaviour, offensive language, or unwanted interactions. Younger users may encounter conversations that are not appropriate for their age. 🎁 In-App Gifts and Paid Features Plink includes paid subscriptions and the ability to send virtual gifts to other users. These features cost real money and may encourage spending within the app, sometimes without young users fully understanding the costs. 👤 Age Requirements The platform states that users must be at least 13 years old, but age verification relies mainly on information provided by the user. This means younger children may still be able to create accounts. 🔐 Account Security Risks Users are responsible for keeping their account login details secure. Sharing login details or linking multiple accounts could increase the risk of account misuse or unauthorised access. 🌐 Third-Party Services Plink may connect to external services and gaming platforms. When using these integrations, users may also be subject to the privacy policies and terms of those third-party services. 🗣️ User-Generated Content Users can post messages, comments, and other content in chats. As with many social platforms, this means children may be exposed to inappropriate language, misleading information, or harmful interactions from other users. |
🛡️SAFETY TIPS:
👤 Check Age Requirements - Make sure your child meets the platform’s minimum age requirement (Plink requires users to be 13+). Remind them not to use real names or personal information in usernames or profiles. 🔐 Review Privacy and Profile Settings - Help your child adjust their privacy settings to control who can see their profile, contact them, or interact with them in chats. 👀 Monitor Account Connections - Since Plink requires linking gaming accounts, check which platforms your child connects and discuss what information may become visible to others. 💬 Talk About Online Interactions - Remind your child that people they meet through gaming apps are still strangers. Encourage them to avoid sharing personal information and to tell a trusted adult if something online makes them uncomfortable. 🚫 Set Clear Boundaries - Encourage your child to only connect with people they know in real life or through trusted gaming communities, and to avoid private conversations with strangers. 🧠 Teach Critical Thinking Online - Discuss the risks of scams, phishing, or requests for money, gifts, or gaming items. Encourage children to be cautious of offers or messages that seem too good to be true. 📢 Encourage Reporting - Make sure your child knows how to block or report users who behave inappropriately, and remind them they can always speak to a parent or trusted adult if they experience problems online. 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. 
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