Sarahah

Sarahah

MINIMUM AGE: 17+
 
WHAT IS IT?
Share honest voice and text feedback with your contacts.  Both a website and a free social media app popular with teens that lets them send anonymous messages to other users.

WHAT WE SAY:
Avoid. 

• Due to the nature of the anonymous social media app and the lack of safety settings, we would recommend that children under 17 years old not use Sarahah.
•  The app was removed from the Google Play and iTunes stores due to reports of bullying in 2018.
• The app lets you create a profile and receive anonymous feedback or answers to questions you pose, or search for people via username and send anonymous comments to them. 
  
•  It also lets you send anonymous messages to strangers.
  
• One potential improvement is that Sarahah has removed the app's connection to Snapchat, and the app functions now as a stand alone. 
  
• Anonymous chat is never recommended for children.
• Anonymous chat has the danger of teaching children that they can say whatever they want without consequence online.
• Some of the worst cases ever online of cyberbullying have happened on anonymous based apps.​

SAFETY TIPS TO CONSIDER:

• Dangers around suggestive, sexual material in the form of pictures and words - ask children to tell you if they see or hear anything that worries them.
• Anonymity fuels risky behaviour - remind children of the dangers of talking anonymously to people​.
• 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.
• Use protection settings, such as time limitations, or only allow social media usage with parental guidance.
• Outline clear rules for your children. Pay attention to their development. As they get older, they should generally be given more freedom.
• Communication will also become more important as children get older. Explain that you are not trying to control them but want to agree upon a set of ground rules.
• Try to stay up-to-date on Internet trends and best practices.
• Talk to your children about the risks of disclosing personal data.
• 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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