TELEGRAM
MINIMUM AGE: 17
WHAT IS IT?
A messaging app designed around secrecy and encryption
WHAT WE SAY:
Avoid.
The unique selling point of this app is based around secrecy
The secretive nature of it means inappropriate content is often shared
The ability to connect with total strangers makes it different to WhatsApp, and much more concerning for us.
SAFETY TIPS TO CONSIDER:
Phone number is required for setup but there is also the option of creating a username which is public and can be searched by anyone
Secret Chats are possible and encouraged - ask children to tell you if anything goes wrong
Has a self-destruct timer, so messages sent can be made to disappear
WHAT IS IT?
A messaging app designed around secrecy and encryption
WHAT WE SAY:
Avoid.
The unique selling point of this app is based around secrecy
The secretive nature of it means inappropriate content is often shared
The ability to connect with total strangers makes it different to WhatsApp, and much more concerning for us.
SAFETY TIPS TO CONSIDER:
Phone number is required for setup but there is also the option of creating a username which is public and can be searched by anyone
Secret Chats are possible and encouraged - ask children to tell you if anything goes wrong
Has a self-destruct timer, so messages sent can be made to disappear
