VIBER
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MINIMUM AGE: 16+
WHAT IS IT? Viber is a messaging and calling app that allows users to send text messages, photos, videos, voice notes, and make voice or video calls over the internet. Similar to other messaging apps, it lets users create group chats and connect with friends, family, or contacts using their phone number. Viber also includes additional features such as large public communities and channels where users can follow discussions or share content with many people. The app uses encryption for private chats and is available on smartphones, tablets, and computers. WHAT WE SAY: Treat with caution. 🔞 Exposure to Inappropriate Content Because Viber allows users to message, call, and join large group chats or public communities, children may encounter inappropriate language, harmful discussions, or unwanted contact from strangers. 🔐 Privacy and Data Collection Like many messaging apps, Viber may collect certain information such as age, gender, and device data to improve services or personalise advertising. Parents should be aware of what information children may share within their profiles. 📱 Phone Number Visibility Viber accounts are linked to phone numbers. In some group chats or communities, other members may be able to see a user’s phone number, which can increase the risk of unwanted contact. 📁 Suspicious Files and Links Users can send files, images, and links through Viber. Opening messages or attachments from unknown contacts could expose users to malware, scams, or harmful websites. 💸 In-App Purchases Viber offers paid features such as stickers or calling services. Children may be tempted to make purchases within the app if payment details are linked to their device. 📍 Location Sharing Viber includes a feature that allows users to share their location in chats. If used carelessly, this could reveal a child’s whereabouts to others. 🔓 Scams and Spam Messages As with many messaging platforms, users may receive spam messages, phishing attempts, or scam links designed to collect personal information or money. |
🛡️SAFETY TIPS:
📲 Understand the app - Familiarise yourself with Viber’s features and how it works. The app allows users to send messages, make voice and video calls, join group chats, and participate in large communities, so understanding these features can help you guide your child safely. 👨👧 Parental supervision - Stay aware of who your child is communicating with and review privacy settings together. Keeping up to date with messaging apps and online trends can help you recognise potential risks early. 📢 Underage Accounts - Viber may have age requirements, but accounts are created using a phone number and basic information. This means some users may misrepresent their age when joining the platform. 👥 Manage contacts carefully - Encourage your child to only communicate with people they know and trust in real life. Remind them not to respond to messages from unknown contacts. 📁 Be cautious with files and links - Teach children not to open attachments, download files, or click on links sent by unknown users, as these could contain scams, malware, or harmful content. 📍 Review location sharing - Check whether the location-sharing feature is enabled in chats and remind children not to share their location with others online. 🧠 Trust your instincts - If a message, call, or interaction feels suspicious or uncomfortable, encourage your child to block the user and report the message. 🖥️ Place devices in shared spaces - Encourage children to use messaging apps in common areas of the home rather than bedrooms, making it easier to supervise their online activity. 🙋♀️ Conversations - Have open discussions with children about online safety topics such as cyberbullying, scams, privacy, and how to block or report harmful users. 🚨 Know the signs of trouble - Watch for behaviour changes such as secrecy around devices, anxiety after receiving messages, mood swings, or quickly deleting apps, as these may indicate negative online experiences. 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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