MONKEY

MONKEY

MINIMUM AGE: 13+
 
WHAT IS IT?
Randomly video chat complete strangers. When matched with a new person, you can add the stranger on Snapchat.

WHAT WE SAY:
Avoid.

• "Fondly referred to as “the Omegle Alternative for TikTokers,” Monkey is the best place to talk to cool, young strangers and make new friends virtually" - (Taken from Monkey Web).
  
• Users can chat or facetime friends or other new people. Monkey says it embraces making friends over social media, however chatting to complete strangers is never a safe thing for children to be doing.
• "Just be your authentic self here. Sit back, stay in your pajamas if you wish to, and enjoy the chat" (Taken from Monkey Web). We would never encourage children or young people to wear pajamas when using any app that allows you to video , stream or share images - this is not appropriate.
• But even worse is when you can befriend that person, which this app allows.
• "Why not invite your bff and video chat live with other strangers together? With DUO, it’s just one click away" (Taken from Monkey Web).
• Users can also chat in groups as well as DM (direct messaging). 
• Encouraging users to chat to strangers should ring alarm bells and is a huge red flag for us!

SAFETY TIPS TO CONSIDER:

• Sexualised content is possible - ask children to tell you if anything goes wrong.
• Users are able to connect with anyone - talk to children and young people about the dangers of chatting to strangers online.
• 'Real Friends' - remind children and young people there is no such thing as an 'Online Friend'. They should only ever connect with people parents or carers know and trust.
• Explain the risks associated with streaming a live video to an unknown audience - personal information could be shared.
• ​Live videos can receive responses which can mean that inappropriate content can be sent - ask children and young people to tell you if anything goes wrong​.
• Also make sure they use their device in a room whereby adults at home are present.
• 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. 
• To access for information go to Monkey's 'Safety Center'. 

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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