WHISPER

WHISPER

MINIMUM AGE: 17+
 
WHAT IS IT?
Whisper allows users to chat and also post photo and video messages anonymously.

WHAT WE SAY:
Avoid. 

• Anonymous chat is never recommended for children.
• Especially one where you can chat to people nearby anonymously.
• 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.
  
• If you’ve enabled location services, your whispers can show up in lists of nearby whispers.
  
• 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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