IMO
IMO
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MINIMUM AGE: 4+
WHAT IS IT? IMO is a free messaging and video calling app available on Android, iOS, and desktop. It allows users to chat, make voice/video calls, share files, and join group chats. WHAT WE SAY: Avoid. 🔞 Exposure to Inappropriate Content IMO features public groups and the ability to connect with strangers, which may expose children to explicit content, mature conversations, or unsolicited images/videos. Unlike more mainstream platforms, moderation is limited. 📢 Lack of Accountability & VerificationIMO does not require age verification or real identities to set up accounts. This means that anyone can create a profile and appear as someone else, with little oversight or consequences for inappropriate behaviour. 🔐 Privacy Concerns IMO collects user data and allows anyone with your number to contact you, which can expose personal information if privacy settings aren't adjusted. 📱 Cyberbullying and Harassment Since IMO enables direct communication, it can be misused for bullying, especially among teens, through unwanted calls or verbal harassment. 🧑💻 Online Predators & GroomingBecause IMO lets users connect through global chats or by finding nearby users, it can attract online predators looking to target young people through private messaging or calls. The lack of effective moderation makes it harder to detect grooming patterns. 🚨 Sexual Harassment & ExploitationIMO has been reported to host unsolicited sexual content and messages, especially in public chats or among strangers. Children may be exposed to sexualised messages, grooming attempts, or requests for images, particularly if their account is public or they engage with unknown users. 💬 Direct Messaging IMO supports unrestricted direct messaging, including media sharing, which can be misused for sending harmful or explicit content. 🔓 Scams & Account Theft Fake profiles and phishing attempts are common, putting users at risk of scams or having their accounts hijacked if they click on suspicious links. |
SAFETY TIPS:
📲Understand the app: Familiarise yourself with IMO's features and how they work. Knowing how the app works will help you guide your child effectively. 👨👧Parental supervision: Check their interactions and adjust privacy settings accordingly. Try to stay up-to-date on Internet trends and best practices. 👥Manage friend requests: Teach your child only to accept friend requests from people they know in real life. 📷 Cover the Webcam When Not in Use Physically cover your camera when you're not ready to go live. Always be mindful of what’s visible in your background—it can reveal location clues. 🧠 Trust Your Instincts If something feels uncomfortable, it is uncomfortable. Leave the chat immediately and don’t engage with users who seem suspicious, aggressive, or inappropriate. 🖥️ Place Devices in Shared Spaces Keep internet-connected devices in living rooms or kitchens, not bedrooms. This makes risky behavior less likely and easier to notice. 🙋♀️Conversations: 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. 🚨 Know the Signs of Trouble Watch for behaviour changes—like anxiety, secrecy, mood swings, or suddenly deleting apps. These can signal something inappropriate happened online. 💬Conversations: 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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