Sarahah
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MINIMUM AGE: 13+
WHAT IS IT? Sarahah is an anonymous messaging app where users receive messages from others without knowing who sent them. After creating an account, users share a unique link that allows people to send anonymous feedback. While designed for honest communication, the anonymity can increase the risk of cyberbullying or harmful comments. The app uses AI moderation to filter inappropriate content, but parents should be aware that anonymous messaging can make accountability more difficult. WHAT WE SAY: Avoid. 🔞 Exposure to Inappropriate Content Sarahah allows users to receive anonymous messages through a shareable profile link. Because messages can be sent without revealing the sender’s identity - and sometimes without creating an account - there is a risk that users may receive offensive, inappropriate, or abusive messages. 🔐 Privacy Considerations To create an account, users must provide basic information such as an email address, username, and password. The platform also stores messages, usage data, and device information. Parents should be aware that anonymous messaging platforms may still collect personal and technical data from users. 📱 Cyberbullying & Harassment Risks The anonymous nature of Sarahah can make it easier for individuals to send hurtful or harassing messages without accountability. While users can delete messages or restrict messages to registered users only, it may still be difficult to identify who is responsible for harmful messages. 🚨 Emotional Wellbeing Receiving anonymous feedback - especially negative or critical comments - can have an emotional impact on young users. Parents should encourage children to talk openly about their online experiences and seek support if messages become upsetting. ⚠️ Moderation and Reporting Sarahah states that it uses AI systems to detect and block potentially harmful content, and users can report inappropriate messages for review. However, because messages are anonymous, users cannot directly block specific senders. ✅ No Live Chat or Location Sharing Sarahah focuses on anonymous messaging through profile links and does not include live video, voice chat, or public location sharing features. BOTTOM LINE: Sarahah is an anonymous messaging platform designed for sharing honest feedback. However, the lack of sender identification can increase the risk of cyberbullying or negative comments. Parents should be aware of how the platform works and discuss safe and respectful online communication with their children. |
🛡️SAFETY TIPS:
📲 Understand the App - Sarahah is an anonymous messaging platform where users receive messages from people whose identities are hidden. Because messages can be sent without revealing who the sender is, it can make it easier for individuals to send harmful or abusive comments. ⚠️ Not Suitable for Children and Young People - Due to its anonymous nature and limited accountability for senders, Sarahah is generally considered unsuitable for children and younger teenagers. The platform can expose users to negative or harmful feedback without knowing who it is coming from. 📢 Limited Age Verification - Sarahah does not have strong age verification measures, meaning users may be able to create accounts using false information. This makes it difficult to know who is sending messages and increases potential risks. 📱 Risk of Cyberbullying - Anonymous messaging can increase the likelihood of cyberbullying, harassment, or inappropriate comments, as senders may feel less responsible for their behaviour. 🖥️ Monitor Device Use - Parents should be aware of apps that allow anonymous messaging and monitor downloads on devices used by children and young people. 🙋♀️ Encourage Open Conversations - Talk with children about the risks of anonymous apps, including bullying, online harassment, and emotional wellbeing. Encourage them to come to a trusted adult if they receive upsetting messages online. 🚨 Know the Warning Signs - Changes in mood, anxiety after using devices, secrecy around apps, or suddenly deleting accounts can sometimes 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. 
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