MONKEY
MONKEY
|
MINIMUM AGE: 18+
WHAT IS IT? Monkey is a social media platform designed for users to connect and have fun through video chat. The app allows users to engage in live video conversations with strangers or friends, focusing on social interaction and entertainment. Users can set preferences for who they want to connect with and can choose to skip to the next user if they don’t feel comfortable. Monkey also incorporates features like games and challenges to enhance the experience. Monkey is a social media platform designed for users to connect and have fun through video chat. The app allows users to engage in live video conversations with strangers or friends, focusing on social interaction and entertainment. Users can set preferences for who they want to connect with and can choose to skip to the next user if they don’t feel comfortable. Monkey also incorporates features like games and challenges to enhance the experience. WHAT WE SAY: Avoid. Access to Inappropriate Content – Users can encounter adult content without warning. This might include inappropriate advertising, explicit language, sexual behaviour, or graphic imagery. Despite users having the option to skip encounters, there's still a risk of encountering unsuitable material, especially since the app connects users randomly. Connecting with strangers - While users can set preferences for whom they wish to connect with, the randomness of the app can lead to mismatches and uncomfortable encounters. Users may end up interacting with individuals who misrepresent themselves, or encounter individuals who engage in predatory or harmful behaviours. Lack of Regulation and Oversight - The app offers little control over who users connect with, increasing the risk of harassment and exploitation. Without effective reporting and moderation systems, users may feel vulnerable and unsupported in addressing negative experiences. Data Privacy - Monkey collects personal data and the app claims the right to use any “user contributed content” it likes, raising serious privacy concerns. Monkey also collects personal information such as users’ browser IP address, date of birth and location. |
SAFETY TIPS TO CONSIDER:
Is the Monkey app safe? The simple answer is No. Children and teens should not use the Monkey app. Its terms of service require users to be 18 or older. There are minimal safety features to protect minors. Even though users know they will be matched with strangers to chat with, they can’t know who is on the other end. Some might want to simply chat with strangers but others might seek to harm. Live Streaming - Explain the risks associated with streaming live videos to an unknown audience. This can lead to inadvertently sharing personal information. Live streams may attract unwanted responses, including inappropriate content. Supervise Device Use: Ensure that children use their devices in shared spaces where adults are present. This oversight can help protect them from potential dangers. Open Conversations - Have ongoing discussions with your child about important online issues such as cyberbullying, grooming, exploitation (both sexual and criminal), body image, and accessing support. Make sure they know how to report any concerns. 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. 
|
