WINK

WINK

MINIMUM AGE: 18+

WHAT IS IT?
Explore dates, hook-ups, friendships, FWB (friends with benefits), and chats on Wink—but be cautious. Wink is designed for adults seeking various relationships, including casual encounters. It's important to note that this app is not suitable for children due to its adult-oriented content and potential risks associated with meeting strangers online. Parents and caregivers should ensure that minors are not using platforms like Wink, as they can expose them to inappropriate situations and interactions.

WHAT WE SAY:
Avoid.

Wink, which is marketed towards adults seeking various types of relationships, from friendship to dating and casual flings. It emphasizes personalised matchmaking, local connections, and diverse relationship preferences, including monogamy, polyamory, and more.

Understanding Wink:

• Wink is a dating app aimed at adults (18+) looking for relationships, friendships, or casual connections.
• It boasts over 40 million users and offers personalised matchmaking based on individual preferences and interests.

​Safety Concerns for Children:

• Wink's primary audience is adults, and the platform is not suitable for children or teenagers.
• Caregivers and professionals should be aware of potential dangers if children use this app:
  • Inappropriate Content: The app may expose young users to adult-oriented discussions, profiles, and content.
  • Privacy Risks: Sharing personal details on such platforms can pose risks to a minor's safety and privacy.
  • Unsuitable Relationships: Encounters with adults on a dating app can lead to inappropriate relationships or exploitation.

Local Connections and Minors:

• Wink emphasizes the ability to connect with like-minded individuals locally. While this feature can be convenient for adults seeking relationships, it raises serious concerns if children use the app.
• Children connecting with adults in their immediate vicinity can expose them to potential dangers such as exploitation, grooming, or inappropriate interactions.

SAFETY TIPS TO CONSIDER:

Educational Focus:

• Caregivers and professionals must educate children about the risks associated with connecting with strangers online, especially those in close proximity.
• Highlight the importance of never meeting someone in person without parental consent and supervision, regardless of how trustworthy they may seem online.

Monitoring and Supervision:

• Caregivers should actively monitor children's online activities and set boundaries regarding app usage.
• Encourage open dialogue with children about the dangers of meeting strangers online and establish guidelines for safe internet practices.

Prohibited Content:

• Wink prohibits the sale or exchange of adult content and has guidelines against inappropriate behaviour.
• This information underscores the app's unsuitability for children and the potential risks associated with underage use.

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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