Social media apps
Here are some features of the most popular social media apps among tweens and teens that parents are likely to find concerning:
  • YouTube – it’s not just the videos that can be unsuitable for children, the comments underneath can contain inappropriate content too.
  • Snapchat – although content disappears after 24 hours (which might encourage some kids to share inappropriate pictures), people can take a screenshot before an image vanishes.
  • TikTok – accounts are set to public by default so strangers could make contact with your child.
  • Instagram – the direct messaging feature can be risky because even if your child’s profile is private, strangers can still contact them.
  • Twitter – an easy place to access porn and kids don’t even need the app to view it.
  • OnlyFans – This app is not meant for kids, but many unfortunately use it. Sex workers, celebrities and influencers share videos, photos and live streams with subscribers.

Watch for these potentially dangerous social media apps too:

  • Tumblr
  • Reddit
  • Facebook
  • Twitter
  • QZone
  • Tout
  • Spreely
  • Triller
  • MeWe
  • Gab
  • Rumble
  • social
  • IRL
  • YikYak
  • Hoop
  • GETTR
  • VSCO
  • WeChat
  • Wishbone
  • Marco Polo