Gowalla

GOWALLA

MINIMUM AGE: 13+
The platform says: "Our services are not intended for children under the age of 13. If you believe that we might have collected information from a child under 13, please contact us at privacy@gowalla.com".
 
WHAT IS IT?
Gowalla is a location-based social networking service. It originally launched in 2007 and closed in 2012, but was relaunched on March 10, 2023. Users are able to check in at "Spots" in their local vicinity, either through a dedicated mobile application or through the mobile website. Not currently available on android. 

WHAT WE SAY:
Treat with caution.

Friends: Users can tap the 'Add Friends' button on the Map view. You can add more friends in three ways:

• Your phone contacts
• Your friends of friends
• By searching for a username

 
Your phone number is used to help find your 'friends' on Gowalla. Your phone number and contacts are never shared with other users.
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Location: The platform uses your location to help you connect with friends in real life and to show you places to go nearby. This is done through check-ins. 
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Check-in: A check-in shows your friends when and where you were on the map.

• By default, only your friends can see where you have checked in. Check-ins are visible by your friends on the map for a limited time. Friends can also see that you have checked in at a place by viewing that place or by viewing your profile.
• Check-ins are not visible to the general public, however Gowalla uses anonymous, aggregate check-in counts to help others know how popular a place is.

Faves: You can add any place to your faves by tapping on the Place then tapping the Fave ❤️ icon. 

• Only your friends can see your faves, however Gowalla says they use "anonymous, aggregate fave counts to make the map better for everyone".

SAFETY TIPS TO CONSIDER:​
How can I delete a check-in?

• Open your Profile in the Gowalla app then tap Check-ins. Scroll to or search for the Place where you would like to delete your check-in. Tap the specific check-in you would like to delete then confirm.

Someone added my home to Gowalla. How do I take it off the map?

• Tap the marker on the map for the Place you want to remove. Then tap the More icon (…) to file a report. You can also reach out to their team directly at support@gowalla.com.

How do I remove a friend?

• Go to your Profile and tap 'Friends'. Tap the 'Friend' label next to the person you wish to remove, then tap Remove Friend.

• Make sure that children and young people always use their device in a room whereby adults are present.
• Discuss 'friends' - there is no such thing as an 'internet friend'. Encourage children and young people to only engage with other users whom adults know in the 'real-world', and that they know and trust.
• Have open discussions with children and young people about the topics associated with online use - bullying, grooming, sexual and criminal exploitation, body image, as well as accessing support and how to report. 

FURTHER SUPPORT:
For parents/ carers If you're worried about your child or need support call NSPCC helpline on 0808 800 5000. 

If you discover criminal content when online then report it directly to the police or the Internet Watch Foundation. 

If you're worried about online grooming or sexual behaviour online then report directly to the police or contact CEOP. 

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 Resource Centre for further information and useful online safety tips.

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