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The SmartSocial.com App Zones Help Parents Identify Good and Bad Apps:
Green Zone Apps can positively impact your social media footprint (with parental guidance) and can help a student shine online
Gray Zone Apps typically feature a lot of private messaging, disappearing content and group chats that are hidden from parents
Red Zone Apps allow students to talk with strangers, often encourage users to act anonymous, and they promote bullying, anxiety and depression
Dangerous Social Media Challenges are viral social media challenges, that encourage teens to do dangerous acts for likes, views, attention, and subscribers
The SmartSocial.com team scours the internet to find the good and bad teen apps you need to know about.
Our Parent App Guides are based on real questions we get from parents and educators all over the world. Instead of keeping our research private, we share our Parent App Guides with our audience. Learn how our Parent App Guide research is conducted. Learn more about hosting a Positive Online Safety Presentation at your school or organization.
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GREEN ZONE: Here are the few apps SmartSocial.com considers to be a starting place for students age 13+
The internet can be a dangerous place for tweens and teens. This is why parents MUST be active on the same apps their students are using. We feel the apps in our green zone are the “lesser of three evils” as they can be used to help a student (13+ years of age) shine online to impress colleges and future employers.
However, this does NOT mean these apps are safe. Adult content is on nearly EVERY app. When used wisely with our social media formula, these apps will better help your students adjust their Google results to create a portfolio of positive online accomplishments. If your students want to have a profile on these networks/apps, Josh Ochs and the Smart Social team suggest that you please consider having a dialog with your students first.
Understand these green zone networks are a safer place to start on social media. Never trust an app just because it looks safe. Parents are the only reliable digital safety app. It's important to get to know each app that your kids are on. At the bottom of this page, we list bad apps (red zone) that we suggest you not allow your kids to access/have/use.
Smart Social App (Based in USA, Owned by Josh Ochs)
Apple App Store Rating: 12+
Google Play Rating: E (Everyone 10+)
The Smart Social App helps parents and educators learn the latest online safety tips so their students can someday shine online. The app has new app guides and social media safety updates regularly. It also contains 300+ FREE professionally created resources for parents and teachers. Download the Smart Social app for free today.
ClassDojo App (Based in USA, Owned by ClassDojo, Inc)
Apple App Store Rating: 4+
Google Play Rating: E (Everyone)
Smart Social ClassDojo Review
ClassDojo is a free communication app designed for teachers, parents, and students. Parents can instant message their child’s teacher. Teachers can encourage students for skills and values, such as working hard, being kind, and teamwork. Students can showcase their knowledge by adding photos and videos to their digital portfolios.
Watch our ClassDojo video.
Facebook (Based in USA, Owned by Facebook, Inc)
Apple App Store Rating: 12+
Google Play Rating: T (Teen)
Smart Social Facebook Review
Facebook users can share thoughts, photos, and videos from their desktop, tablet, and/or mobile phone. Facebook makes money by selling ad space in and next to the Feed. Facebook has very robust privacy controls, yet we remind every student that everything you post online could eventually be public. Networks like Facebook can quickly change their privacy settings without telling users, which could put their privacy at risk.
Watch our Facebook video.
Facebook Messenger (Based in USA, Owned by Facebook, Inc)
Apple App Store Rating: 12+
Google Play Rating: E (Everyone)
Smart Social Facebook Messenger Review
Facebook Messenger allows users to chat with anyone on Facebook. We suggest parents "friend" their students on Facebook and monitor who their students are adding as friends and chatting with. Facebook Messenger is tied to a Facebook account, which is tied to a student's real identity.
Watch our Facebook Messenger video.
Instagram (Based in USA, Owned by Facebook, Inc)
Apple App Store Rating: 12+
Google Play Rating: T (Teen)
Smart Social Instagram App Review
Instagram is a photo and video sharing app and is one of the most popular apps for teens. More than 1 billion users worldwide are logging on to share photos, videos, and stories. The Instagram terms of use states users must 13 or older and what students share can have an impact on their digital footprint.
Watch our Instagram video.
LinkedIn (Based in USA, Owned by Microsoft)
Apple Age Store Rating: 12+
Google Play Rating: E (Everyone)
SmartSocial Linkedin App Review
LinkedIn is an important tool for teens who want to improve their Google results when preparing to apply to college, internships, or jobs. It is the best place to start an online brand to impress colleges and future employers when used with good intention.
Watch our LinkedIn video.
Medium (Based in USA, Owned by A Medium Corp)
Apple App Store Rating: 12+
Google Play Rating: T (Teen)
Smart Social Medium App Review
Medium is an online publishing platform and app, that allows users to publish articles on any subject. When used wisely, Medium can have a positive impact on a student’s digital footprint.
Watch our Medium video.
Messenger Kids (Based in USA, Owned by Facebook)
Apple App Store Rating: 4+
Google Play Rating: E (Everyone)
Smart Social Messenger Kids App Review
Messenger Kids, by Facebook, is a video chat and messaging app that’s built for kids. Messenger Kids accounts are set up through a parent's Facebook account. When kids receive a friend request, that request is sent to their parents to either approve or deny. Messages can’t be hidden and never disappear. Parents can easily read the chat and connection history. Parents must closely monitor their student's social media regularly.
Watch our Messenger Kids app video.
Pinterest (Based in USA, Owned by Pinterest, Inc)
Apple App Store Rating: 12+
Google Play Rating: T (Teen)
Smart Social Pinterest App Review
Pinterest is a visual discovery tool that helps users find and save ideas. It's a great source of inspiration for students. They can use Pinterest to find studying tips, DIY projects, and more. Students can have fun on Pinterest, but parents should monitor their activity because they could come across some mature content on the network.
Watch our Pinterest video.
Free Parent Night:
25+ Dangers On TikTok, Snapchat, Instagram, Fortnite, Netflix, YouTube & More (Multiple Dates)
Join Josh for a presentation that will teach you the hidden safety features of TikTok, Instagram, Snapchat, Netflix, Discord, Fortnite, Twitch & more! (Register Here)
Prezi (Based in Hungary, Owned by Prezi Inc)
Apple App Store Rating: 4+
Google Play Rating: E (Everyone)
Smart Social Prezi App Review
Prezi is a presentation software that allows users to create and share visually engaging slide presentations. Having a professional presentation in a discoverable format online can showcase a student’s passion and knowledge on a specific subject.
Watch our Prezi video.
Twitter (Based in USA, Owned by Twitter, Inc)
Apple App Store Rating: 17+
Google Play Rating: M (Mature 17+)
Smart Social Twitter App Review
Twitter allows users to send messages up to 280 characters in length (and include photos and videos). Twitter is a place where some students feel they can diary their feelings, not realizing their Tweets are tied to their identity (and can be seen by colleges and employers).
Watch our Twitter video.
ZeeMee App
Apple App Store Rating: 12+
Google Play Rating: T (Teen)
Smart Social ZeeMee App Review
ZeeMee is a free app that allows students to showcase themselves for college admissions, through photos and videos. Students can connect with each other on the app, based on interests and passion. Profiles can be made private and unsearchable online so that only those with the link will be able to see them.
Watch our ZeeMee video.
GRAY ZONE: Parents should participate in these apps with students to keep them safe. These apps can be good (and bad) for your students.
The gray zone is a place where your students WANT to hang out, but if they use these apps negatively, it could hurt their digital footprint. Parents should be engaged when students use gray zone apps. This zone can be a great place for family time since many of these apps can be entertaining, and let your students express themselves. These apps can be safe as long as parents are nearby.
We do recommend you talk to your kids about "Sexting" and sharing inappropriate content if your students have these apps. The SmartSocial.com team suggests parents should spend time each month talking with their kids about each app they use. This is the best way to keep your kids safe online (not by restricting them, but by staying informed and keeping an open dialog).
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Among Us App (Based in USA, Owned by InnerSloth LLC)
Apple App Store Rating: 12+
Google Play Rating: T (Teen)
Smart Social Among Us App Review
The Among Us app is an online, multiplayer game that can be played with friends or strangers. It’s a social dedication game filled with teamwork, betrayal, and mild violence. Parents should know there is a public game option that lets you play and chat with complete strangers.
Watch our Among Us video.
Bitmoji App (Based in USA, Owned by Snap Inc.)
Apple App Store Rating: 12+
Google Play Rating: T (Teen)
Smart Social Bitmoji App Review
The Bitmoji app allows users to create a cartoon avatar or “emoji” that looks like themselves. Since it’s easy to create Bitmojis and share them on other apps, teens could get themselves in trouble if they create an inappropriate Bitmoji that gets shared on social media (or screenshot and shared). Some security experts warn that giving 3rd party keyboards access to your device’s data, like Bitmoji asks to do, can put your privacy at risk.
Watch our Bitmoji video.
Byte App (Based in USA, Owned by Byte, Inc)
Apple App Store Rating: 17+
Google Play Rating: T (Teen)
Smart Social Byte App Review
The Byte app lets users watch, create, and share six-second video loops. All videos posted to the app are automatically public. Users can like or comment on anyone else’s video, share it as a “rebyte”, or redistribute it through text, email, or another social media platform.
Watch our Byte app video.
Fortnite Battle Royale (Based in USA, Owned by Epic Games)
Apple App Store Rating: 12+
Google Play Rating: T (Teen)
Smart Social Fortnite App Review
Fortnite Battle Royale is a free, multiplayer game that is incredibly popular with students. Fortnite is designed to keep players coming back, which can be addicting and difficult for students who haven’t yet developed a healthy relationship with screen time. Also, students might come across profanity or inappropriate language from other players through text or voice chatting.
Watch our Fortnite: Battle Royale app video.
Free Parent Night:
25+ Dangers On TikTok, Snapchat, Instagram, Fortnite, Netflix, YouTube & More (Multiple Dates)
Join Josh for a presentation that will teach you the hidden safety features of TikTok, Instagram, Snapchat, Netflix, Discord, Fortnite, Twitch & more! (Register Here)
Google Arts & Culture App (Based in USA, Owned by Google Inc.)
Apple App Store Rating: 12+
Google Play Rating: E (Everyone)
Smart Social Google Arts & Culture App Review
Google Arts & Culture app and website makes fine-art easily accessible by offering virtual tours of museums. Users can take and submit a photo of themselves and the app will scan its database and share a painting that resembles the photo submitted.
Watch our Google Arts & Culture app video.
Google Hangouts (Based in USA, Owned by Google Inc.)
Apple App Store Rating: 4+
Google Play Rating: E (Everyone)
Smart Social Google Hangouts App Review
Google Hangouts is a messaging platform tied to your Gmail address. Users can message friends, start free video or voice calls, and start a conversation with one person or a group. Some parents have found predators targeting their kids through Google Hangouts. (Note: Google Hangouts is transitioning to Google Chat.)
Watch our Google Hangouts app video.
GroupMe App (Based in USA, Owned by Microsoft)
Apple App Store Rating: 4+
Google Play Rating: E (Everyone)
Smart Social GroupMe App Review
GroupMe is a messaging app where users can send group or private messages from their computer or phone using WiFi. Since activity from the GroupMe app doesn’t show up on their parents’ phone bill, some students use the app to hide their messaging activity.
Watch our GroupMe video.
Houseparty App (Based in USA, owned by Epic Games)
Apple App Store Rating: 14+
Google Play Rating: T (Teen)
SmartSocial.com Houseparty App Review
Houseparty is a video chat app that mimics an actual house party where users can move from “room” to “room” video chatting with others. Users can chat with up to eight people at the same time. Chats are unmoderated and students might come in contact with inappropriate content or cyberbullies.
Watch our Houseparty video.
Kahoot App (Based in Norway, Owned by Kahoot!)
Apple App Store Rating: 4+
Google Play Rating: E (Everyone)
Smart Social Kahoot! App Guide
Kahoot is a game-based classroom platform for quizzes, surveys, and discussions. While teachers love this to create engaging lessons, there are reports of students cheating, creating inappropriate usernames the class can see, and causing the quizzes to crash during class.
Watch our Kahoot! App video.
Life360 Family Locator App (Based in USA, Owned by Life360)
Apple App Store Rating: 4+
Google Play Rating: E (Everyone)
Smart Social Life360 App Review
Life360 Family Locator is a real-time location-sharing app that uses GPS location data to report the location of users. A user creates a geofence around their home and other frequently visited destinations. If your family uses the app, be aware that your children can start sharing their location with their friends.
Watch our Life360 Family Locator App video.
Litterati App (Based in USA, Owned by Litterati)
Apple App Store Rating: 12+
Google Play Rating: T (Teen)
Smart Social Litterati App Review
The Litterati app encourages users to clean up litter in their community while leveraging social networking. Some parents are concerned because their students take photos of themselves with the trash they collect and then post the photo to the app with their exact location. Geo-tagging can make it easier for predators to target victims in their exact location and learn more information about them.
Watch our Litterati App video.
Marco Polo App (Based in USA, Owned by Joya Communications, Inc.)
Apple App Store Rating: 4+
Google Play Rating: E (Everyone)
Smart Social Marco Polo App Review
Marco Polo is a video instant messaging app. To add users, the app requests access to the user's contact lists. The SmartSocial team believes it is a bad idea to allow students to use apps that grant access to the contacts in their phones.
Watch the Marco Polo App video.
Minecraft (Based in Sweden, Developed by Mojang Studios, Owned by Microsoft)
Apple App Store Rating: 9+
Google Play Rating: E (Everyone 10+)
Smart Social Minecraft App Review
Minecraft gameplay involves players interacting with the game world by placing and breaking various types of blocks in a 3D environment. While Minecraft may be used for educational purposes, players can encounter bullying, inappropriate content, and adult language while playing this game. Police have warned that predators can prey on and groom children in online video games, like Minecraft, if kids are playing the online multiplayer version without parental supervision.
Watch our Minecraft app video.
Musical.ly App
Note: Musical.ly was shut down in August 2018. All of Musical.ly's 100 million users were transitioned to the TikTok app's servers in China.
Smart Social Musical.ly App Review
Musical.ly let users create lip-syncing videos to their favorite songs. Students could easily hear adult songs and see mature content on this app.
Watch our Musical.ly app video.
Free Parent Night:
25+ Dangers On TikTok, Snapchat, Instagram, Fortnite, Netflix, YouTube & More (Multiple Dates)
Join Josh for a presentation that will teach you the hidden safety features of TikTok, Instagram, Snapchat, Netflix, Discord, Fortnite, Twitch & more! (Register Here)
Netflix App (Based in the USA, Owned by Netflix)
Apple App Store Age: 12+
Google Play Age: T (Teen)
SmartSocial.com Netflix App Review
The Netflix app allows users, with a paid Netflix account, to watch streaming movies and TV shows on a mobile device. Family members can share one account with up to 5 individual profiles. You must be 18+ to start a Netflix membership, according to the Terms of Use. Netflix offers many parental controls to filter content on a student’s profile. Parents can only access the safety settings on Netflix.com, not on the Netflix app. Watch our Netflix app video.
ooVoo App (Based in USA, Owned by Krush Technologies)
Apple App Store Age: Not available on Apple Store
Google Play Age: E (for Everyone)
Smart Social ooVoo App Review
ooVoo is a video and messaging app. It was discontinued in November 2017, but became available again on Google Play. Parents should be aware that ooVoo has been reportedly used by predators to contact underage kids. The app allows users to video chat with up to 12 people at one time.
Watch our ooVoo app video.
Periscope (Based in USA, Owned by Twitter)
Note: Periscope has shut down since our original review and transitioned all services to Twitter.
Smart Social Periscope App Review
Periscope was a live video app. It allowed users to watch and broadcast real-time videos from their phones. It was easy to find your kids on Periscope if you know their Twitter usernames. Most of the content on this app is unmonitored and your students can watch live videos from all over the world.
Watch our Periscope video.
Pokémon Go (Based in USA, Owned by Niantic, Inc.)
Apple App Store Rating: 9+
Google Play Rating: E (Everyone)
Smart Social Pokémon Go App Review
Pokémon Go is an augmented-reality mobile game for iOS and Android devices that bridges the gap between real life and the digital world. Law enforcement officials have been concerned about user safety while using the app.
Watch our Pokémon Go app video.
Roblox (Based in USA, Owned by Roblox Corp.)
Apple App Store Rating: 12+
Google Play Rating: E (Everyone 10+)
Smart Social Roblox App Review
Roblox is a user-generated online gaming platform. Users can create their own games and play other games other users have made. Police warn that predators have used the gaming platform to target children. Since users can create and upload games, inappropriate and graphic content can appear in any game, as well as in the chatbox. Watch our Roblox app video.
Rules of Survival (Based in China, Owned by NetEase Games)
Apple App Store Rating: 17+
Google Play Rating: T (Teen)
Smart Social Rules of Survival App Review
Rules of Survival is an online multiplayer video game. Up to 300 people play until there is only one player left. Parents should be aware that users can talk to other players in the game, some of the character’s outfits are suggestive, and there are in-app purchases. Watch our Rules of Survival video.
SMS Text Messaging
Apple SMS Guide
Android SMS Guide
Smart Social SMS Review
SMS text messaging is one of the primary apps that each phone has. All accounts are connected to phone numbers or email addresses. SMS messenger is relatively safe for students, there are many ways for parents to track messages and monitor use.
Watch our SMS Text Messaging video.
Snapchat App (Based in USA, Owned by Snap Inc)
Apple App Store Rating: 12+
Google Play Rating: T (Teen)
Smart Social Snapchat App Review
Snapchat users take and edit photos and videos and send them to friends or post them to their Snapchat feed. The messages (aka Snaps) "disappear" after being viewed. Students often feel OK sharing very personal moments on Snapchat, but should be taught that nothing online ever truly disappears. Snapchat streaks make this app highly addictive.
Watch our Snapchat app video.
Steam Mobile (Based in USA, Owned by Valve Corp)
Apple App Store Rating: 12+
Google Play Rating: T (Teen)
Smart Social Steam App Review
Steam Mobile is an online distribution platform for users to buy and play video games. Users get instant access to thousands of games that are available on Steam. Most Steam games can be purchased but some are free to play. Although the games have age requirements, it’s easy for students to bypass the age restrictions. Some parents warn that it can be easy for younger students to be scammed into an unfair deal when trading.
Watch our Steam Mobile app video.
Threads from Instagram (Based in USA, Owned by Facebook, Inc.)
Apple App Store Rating: 12+
Google Play Rating: T (Teen)
Smart Social Threads from Instagram App Review
Threads from Instagram is a messaging app that allows users to stay in constant contact and share content with a list of their closest friends. Users can allow the app to track them and send out automatic updates on their behalf. If your kids are on this app, we highly recommend that you get on it too and have your kid add you as a “close friend” so you can make sure they’re using it safely.
Watch our Threads from Instagram app video.
TikTok (Based in China, Owned by ByteDance)
Apple App Store Rating: 12+
Google Play Rating: T (Teen)
Smart Social TikTok App Review
TikTok is a make-your-own music video app. The app was previously called Musical.ly. Users can watch and create short (up to 60-seconds) videos. TikTok released new parental controls in 2020, including a Family Pairing feature which allows parents to link their TikTok account to their student's TikTok account.
Watch our TikTok app video.
Triller (Based in the USA, Owned by Proxima Media)
Apple App Store Rating: 12+
Google Play Rating: T (Teen)
Smart Social Triller App Review
The Triller app is a social media network where users make and share short videos. Anyone can view videos, but users must sign up for a free account to “like” videos, follow other users, read/make comments, and send direct messages. Since content is user-generated on Triller, it can contain profanity, suggestive dance moves, drinking, and drug use.
Watch our Triller app video.
Twitch (Based in USA, Owned by Twitch Interactive, Inc, subsidiary of Amazon)
Apple App Store Rating: 17+
Google Play Rating: T (Teen)
Smart Social Twitch App Review
Twitch is a live streaming video platform where users watch people live-stream themselves as they play video games (and live chat with viewers). No matter how you configure your student’s Twitch security settings, there is no way to know if content is safe for your student unless you become familiar with the platform and review their favorite videos or streamers.
Watch our Twitch video.
Vine (Based in USA, Owned by Twitter - Closed in 2016)
Note: Vine was discontinued by Twitter in 2016 and is no longer available for download.
Smart Social Vine App Review
Vine is owned by Twitter and was a six-second video-sharing app. Users often posted videos of their everyday life and blunders. Much of the content on Vine was crude humor and carefully crafted to get views.
Watch our Vine app video.
VSCO App (Based in USA, Owned by VSCO)
Apple App Store Rating: 12+
Google Play Rating: E (Everyone)
Smart Social VSCO App Review
The VSCO app is a photo editing app, similar to Instagram, with various filters and photo enhancements. Users can share their photos on the VSCO app or to other apps after they edit them. Unlike Instagram, there is limited social interaction on VSCO. Users can private message friends (if they follow each other), but they can’t like or comment on each other’s posts.
Watch our VSCO video.
WhatsApp Messenger (Based in USA, Owned by Facebook, Inc.)
Apple App Store Rating: 12+
Google Play Rating: E (for everyone)
Smart Social WhatsApp Review
WhatsApp is a free messaging app that allows students to use wifi to bypass their SMS/text messaging feature and directly communicate with other users on the app. The app promises end-to-end encryption. WhatsApp has free messaging, stickers, group video chats, and voice calls. WhatsApp can be accessed on a smartphone or a desktop.
Watch our WhatsApp video.
YouTube (Based in USA, Owned by Google)
Apple App Store Rating: 17+
Google Play Rating: T (Teen)
Smart Social YouTube App Review
YouTube is a video player, editor, and sharing app and website. The app offers many parental settings, including content filters and time restrictions, but can be highly addictive. Many videos are unmoderated, so adult content could easily be found by young students.
Watch our YouTube video.
RED ZONE: ANONYMOUS APPS – Here are the apps SmartSocial.com does NOT consider safe for students.
These are the apps Josh Ochs and the Smart Social team do not recommend for teens or tweens.
These apps usually have inappropriate and unmoderated content. Students are more prone to cyberbullying and chatting with strangers (sometimes even predators) on apps in the red zone. Often, these apps are anonymous and will encourage students to behave inappropriately. When students use an app in anonymous mode (without it being tied to their real identity) they tend to behave differently.
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After School App (Based in USA, Owned by ONE, Inc.)
NOTE: After School has been formally discontinued.
Smart Social AfterSchool App Review
After School was an anonymous app that created a separate chat group for every school. It has been removed multiple times from the App Store and Google Play because of threats and arrests. Messages often include bullying, pornography, and alcohol or drug references.
Watch our After School app video.
Amino (Based in USA, Owned by Narvii, Inc)
Apple App Store Rating: 17+
Google Play Rating: T (Teen)
Smart Social Amino App Review
The Amino app encourages young users to explore their interests and connect with people who have similar passions. However, those virtual Amino communities are uncensored and everyone using the app is anonymous. Students could be chatting, sharing photos, or exchanging videos with adult strangers who have ulterior motives.
Watch our Amino Chat video.
AntiLand App (Based in USA, Owned by Anti Corporation)
Apple App Store Rating: 17+
Google Play Rating: Mature (17+)
Smart Social AntiLand App Review
The AntiLand app (formerly AntiChat app) offers users the ability to anonymously chat with users around the world. Anonymous apps like AntiLand can be very dangerous for students to use because they encourage users to chat with strangers. Content in chat rooms can be very mature and many users ask for pictures or to send pictures.
Watch our AntiLand app video.
ASKfm (Based in Latvia, Owned by Ask.fm Europe Limited)
Apple App Store Rating: 17+
Google Play Rating: T (Teen)
Smart Social ASKfm App Review
ASKfm (previously known as Ask.fm) encourages students to set up a public profile and allows anonymous people to ask them questions. This encourages bullying and can really hurt the student's feelings. Kids often reveal too much personal information on this site, and cyberbullying is very prevalent.
Watch our ASKfm app video.
BIGO Live App (Based in Singapore, Owned by Bigo Technology)
Apple App Store Rating: 17+
Google Play Rating: T (Teen)
Smart Social BIGO Live App Review
BIGO LIVE is a live video streaming social media network that encourages users to randomly chat with strangers using their video calls feature. The emphasis on connecting with strangers on BIGO LIVE is a major red flag that this app is NOT safe for students.
Watch our BIGO Live app video.
BitLife App (Based in USA, Owned by CandyWriter LLC)
Apple App Store Rating: 17+
Google Play Rating: M (Mature 17+)
Smart Social BitLife App Review
The BitLife app guides players on a simulated life from birth to death. Players make text-based choices, which can promote safe or risky lifestyles. Players are exposed to many mature ideas including drug addiction, sex, and violence. Players can earn "ribbons" when they reach certain milestones, which could contribute to excessive screen time or gaming addiction.
Watch our BitLife app video.
BOO (Based in China, Owned by Beijing Baide Aisi Technology Co)
Apple App Store Rating: 9+
Google Play Rating: E (Everyone)
Smart Social BOO App Review
The BOO app (formerly Boomoji) is a social network where users create an avatar that they use to chat with others. If your student had the app before December 2018 (or if their friends did), it is likely that their phone number and any other personal information they linked to the app was exposed.
Watch our Boo app video.
Bumble App (Based in USA, Owned by Bumble Holding Limited)
Apple App Store Rating: 17+
Google Play Rating: M (Mature 17+)
Smart Social Bumble App Review
Bumble is a mobile dating app where women must be the first to make contact. Bumble now offers three modes to find matches - Date (dating), BFF (friends) and BIZZ (business). Tweens and teens have been known to lie about their age and create fake accounts on dating apps like Bumble.
Watch our Bumble app video.
BurnBook App (Based in USA)
NOTE: At the time of this review, BurnBook was no longer available in the iOS App Store or Google Play Store.
Smart Social BurnBook App Review
BurnBook was an anonymous app for posting text, photos, and audio rumor messages about others. The app compiled messages by school, so the app required access to user's location. It encouraged students to screenshot the rumors and save them to their phone, which causes bullying issues.
Watch our BurnBook App video.
Calculator Private Photo Vault Apps
Apple App Store Rating: 17+
Google Play Rating: E (Everyone)
Smart Social Calculator Private Photo Vault Apps Review
Various Calculator Private Photo Vault apps are designed to help students hide photos and videos behind an innocent looking calculator app. This application looks like a calculator but entering a pass-code opens a private area.
Watch our Calculator Private Photo Vault apps video.
Call of Duty: Mobile App (Based in USA, Owned by Activision Publishing)
Apple App Store Rating: 17+
Google Play Rating: M (Mature 17+)
Smart Social Call of Duty App Review
Call of Duty a multiplayer battle game on the go. The app has warnings for mature content, violence, and profanity. We also want parents to know this game can be addicting for users and offers many in-app purchases as players advance through the matches.
Watch our Call of Duty: Mobile app video.
Discord App (Based in USA, Owned by Discord)
Apple App Store Rating: 12+
Google Play Rating: T (Teen)
Smart Social Discord App Review
Discord is a free voice, video, and text chat app where users live stream games and internet videos. Like many chat apps, Discord doesn’t put out dangerous content, but some people who use it might. If your student is connecting with random people on Discord, there’s a good chance they might come across something inappropriate.
Watch our Discord app video.
Emerald Chat (Based in London, Owned by Emerald, Co.)
Smart Social Emerald Chat Review
Emerald is a live chat website that specifically markets itself as being all about talking to strangers. The topics of live text chats and videos can very quickly become inappropriate for students.
Watch our Emerald Chat video.
Facetune and Facetune2 (Based in Israel, Owned by Lightricks Ltd.)
Apple App Store Rating: 4+
Google Play Rating: E (Everyone)
Smart Social Facetune App Review
The Facetune app lets users change or remove their perceived imperfections in an instant. Users can make minor or major adjustments to their appearance. Some psychologists have warned there are dangerous health consequences for teens who regularly use apps, like Facetune, to change their appearance.
Watch our Facetune app video.
Fachat App (Based in China, Owned by Jingwen Guan)
Apple App Store Rating: 17+
Google Play Rating: M (Mature 17+)
Smart Social Fachat App Review
Fachat allows users to pay to video chat with strangers around the world. Users can remain anonymous or add their age, location, and photo to their profile. The app is free, but coins must be purchased for video chats. Chatting with strangers online could be dangerous and children could be exposed to some very mature conversations and inappropriate sexual behaviors on Fachat.
Watch our Fachat app video.
Finstagram/Spam Instagram Account (Based in USA, Owned by Facebook Inc.)
Apple App Store Rating: 12+
Google Play Rating: T (Teen)
Smart Social Finstagram App Review
Finstagram (Finsta) is a fake (or second) Instagram account (sometimes referred to as a "spam account" by students). Students get a second Instagram account along with their real Instagrams, to post pictures or videos without their parents knowing about the second account.
Watch our Finstagram app video.
HOLA App (Based in USA, Owned by Skylb Inc)
Apple App Store Rating: 17+
Google Play Rating: M (Mature 17+)
Smart Social HOLA App Review
The HOLA app is a random video chat app. Users must sign up with a Google or Facebook account. They are not asked to verify their age. New users must give the app permission to access the phone’s camera and microphone. Users push a “start call” button to immediately be connected with a live, random stranger. Users report widespread profanity, nudity, and lewd behavior on the app.
Watch our HOLA app video.
HOLLA App (Based in China, Owned by HOLLA Group)
Apple App Store Rating: At the time of this review, the HOLLA app was not available for download in the iOS App Store.
Google Play Rating: M (Mature 17+)
Smart Social HOLLA App Review
The HOLLA app is a live, random video chat app. Users must register with a phone number or Facebook account. The app requires access to a user’s phone camera and microphone. There is a “Nearby” chat mode that uses the phone’s GPS to connect with nearby strangers. A monthly fee is required to search for users by their gender or profile. Many users report seeing nudity and lewd behavior on this app.
Watch our HOLLA app video.
Hooked App (Based in USA, Owned by Telepathic, Inc)
Apple App Store Rating: 12+
Google Play Rating: T (Teen)
Smart Social Hooked App Review
The Hooked app enables users to read stories in chat form, like a series of text messages or as a series of video clips. Since the majority of the stories feature sex, violence, and drug use, this app is inappropriate for students. Also, this app can have a serious impact on your child’s digital footprint, especially if they sign up with their Facebook account.
Watch our Hooked app video.
Hoop App (Based in France, Owned by Dazz SAS)
Apple App Store Rating: 12+
Google Play Rating: T (Teen)
Smart Social Hoop App Review
The Hoop app is built on the Snapchat platform (but is not owned by Snapchat). Hoop users swipe through profiles to find new people to connect with on Snapchat.
Watch our Hoop app video.
IMVU App (Based in USA, Owned by IMVU, Inc)
Apple App Store Rating: 17+
Google Play Rating: M (Mature 17+)
Smart Social IMVU App Review
IMVU is an app where users create custom avatars and use them to chat with strangers in random chats or 3D chat rooms. This app can be used by predators to try and get victims to share their phone number, send photos, and video chat off of the app. Content on IMVU is inappropriate for teens and avatars can be used to simulate explicit activities.
Watch our IMVU app video.
Jott Messenger (Based in USA, Owned by Juxta Labs)
NOTE: At the time of this review, Jott Messenger was no longer available in the iOS App Store or Google Play Store.
Smart Social Jott Messenger App Review
Jott Messenger is an app that allows students to send messages without a data plan or a WiFi connection. Jott messenger creates a closed network with other devices (usually using a direct bluetooth signal) and can reach other users up to 100-feet. Like Snapchat, Jott includes a “self-destructing” feature that lets the user decide when a message, photo, or video will "disappear."
Watch our Jott Messenger app video.
Kik (Based in USA, Owned by MediaLab)
Apple App Store Rating: 17+
Google Play Rating: T (Teen)
Smart Social Kik App Review
Kik is a chat app that allows anyone to contact your child and directly message them with text, photos, or video messages. There are many news reports of predators using the app because it is easy to create a user account with any email address.
Watch our Kik app video.
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25+ Dangers On TikTok, Snapchat, Instagram, Fortnite, Netflix, YouTube & More (Multiple Dates)
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Lasso App (Based in USA, Owned by Facebook Inc.)
NOTE: Facebook announced it is shutting down the Lasso app, effective July 10, 2020.
Apple App Store Rating: 12+
Google Play Rating: T (Teen)
Smart Social Lasso App Review
Lasso app users could create and edit videos and set them to music. The privacy controls on this app are extremely limited. Complete strangers can watch every video your kid is creating on the Lasso App.
Watch the Lasso App video.
LINE App (Based in Japan, Owned by LINE Corporation)
Apple App Store Rating: 12+
Google Play Rating: E (Everyone)
Smart Social LINE App Review
The LINE app allows users to have hidden chats, make new friends, and build a social media network filled with cute stickers and avatars. It also gives users a free way to make calls and send texts. Strangers can easily contact kids through the LINE app and LINE Play.
Watch the LINE app video.
Lipsi App
Apple App Store Rating: 17+
Google Play Rating: At the time of this review, Lipsi was not available for download on Google Play
Smart Social Lipsi App Review
Lipsi is a feedback app where students can accept anonymous feedback from others. Anonymous apps, like Lipsi, can be dangerous for students and don’t help them build a positive digital footprint. Cyberbullying is a big threat on this app. Watch the Lipsi app video.
Live.ly App (Based in China, Owned by Musical.ly)
NOTE: Live.ly was discontinued in 2018 and is no longer available in the iOS App Store or Google Play Store.
Smart Social Live.ly App Review
Live.ly was a video streaming app from the creators of Musical.ly where users broadcasted live video (or video chatted with friends). Before it closed in 2018, there were reports of students using Live.ly to play truth or dare, and it was not uncommon to see students younger than 13 on the app. Some parents even called the Live.ly app a "pedophile hunting ground."
Watch the Live.ly app video.
Live.me App (Based in China, Owned by KS Mobile)
Apple App Store: 17+
Google Play Rating: At this time of this review, Live.Me was no longer available on Google Play.
Smart Social Live.Me App Review
Live.me (also called LiveMe) is a live streaming video app that allows users to watch or broadcast live-stream videos. The app uses geolocation to share videos, so users know broadcasters' exact location. Users earn coins on Live.me and some predators are using coins as a way to pay minors for pictures. Be aware that anyone can watch your students videos and access their information on the app. Watch the Live.me App video.
Look App
NOTE: At the time of this review, Look was no longer available in the iOS App Store or Google Play Store.
Smart Social Look App Review
Look is a free messaging app that combines live video with text messaging. In the past the Look app was known to request the user to upload all of their contacts to the app's servers. The app would then send text messages to many of the contacts saying the user invited them to join the app. Also, some users have reported that it’s easy for strangers to message you on the app.
Watch the Look app video.
MeetMe App (Based in USA, Owned by The Meet Group)
Apple App Store Rating: 17+
Google Play Rating: M (Mature 17+)
Smart Social MeetMe App Review
MeetMe is a dating app that connects strangers based on similar interests and locations. Users can private message each other and participate in live streams. They are also encouraged to exchange gifts and money through the app. Police have issued warnings about MeetMe after cases involving predators caught using the app. As a default, names and locations are public on profiles.
Watch the MeetMe app video.
MeWe App (Based in USA, Owned by Sgrouples Inc)
Apple App Store Rating: 17+
Google Play Rating: M (Mature 17+)
Smart Social MeWe App Review
MeWe is a social network marketed to users who want more privacy. Users connect with friends, family and groups with common interests. MeWe says the company does not track user data to sell to third-parties or to use to target users with advertising content. MeWe policies have left the door open for hate speech, pornography and illegal activities.
Watch the MeWe app video.
Mojiit App (Based in USA, Owned by Mojiit)
Apple App Store Rating: 12+
Google Play Rating: At the time of this review, Mojiit was not available on Google Play.
Smart Social Mojiit App Review
The Mojiit app is a social network where users create and share animated avatars using augmented reality. Using their phone’s camera, users take videos of themselves which turn into an avatar. Mojiit uses geolocation and encourages users to go to certain locations nearby. Geolocation features can be dangerous for teens and tweens because strangers nearby can find the student’s exact location.
Watch the Mojiit app video.
Monkey App (Based in USA, Owned by Monkey, Inc)
Apple App Store Rating: As of May 2020, Monkey is no longer available for download in the iOS App Store.
Google Play Rating: M (Mature 17+)
Smart Social Monkey App Review
The Monkey app randomly pairs users with strangers for live video chats. Users see the age and gender of the other user before connecting with them for a 15-second chat. Random video chatting apps make it easy for predators to target students.
Watch the Monkey app video.
MyLOL App (Based in Canada, Owned by Smart Lamas Inc.)
Apple App Store Rating: As of May 2020, MyLOL was no longer available for download in the iOS App Store.
Google Play Rating: M (Mature 17+)
Smart Social MyLOL App Review
MyLOL is a teen dating app designed for students 13-19 years old. Built-in features of MyLOL encourage users to send private messages to random strangers. While people over 20 years old are not permitted to create an account, MyLOL makes it easy to enter another birth date, if you’re not a teen.
Watch the MyLOL app video.
Ogle App (Based in USA, Owned by Nuistars Inc.)
NOTE: This app is no longer available in the iOS App Store or on Google Play.
Smart Social Ogle App Review
Ogle was an anonymous app that automatically searched the users' location for nearby schools. The app allows *anyone* to interact with school feeds, engage on any campus's content, and share or ask anything anonymously. Since there was little formal registration, bullies and predators could easily masquerade as students.
Watch the Ogle app video.
Omegle App (Based in Dubai, Owned by Omegle)
Apple App Store Rating: 17+
Google Play Rating: M (Mature 17+)
Smart Social Omegle App Review
Omegle is an anonymous text and video chat room that connects strangers to talk with each other. The app allows users to share personal information and often contains inappropriate and unmoderated content. Omegle’s slogan is: “Talk to strangers!” Omegle also has a video chat feature.
Watch our Omegle App video.
OnlyFans (Based in London, Owned by Fenix International Limited)
Age Rating: 18+
Smart Social OnlyFans Review
OnlyFans is a subscription website where users make money by sharing photos or videos with their followers. Fan accounts cover diverse interests from media creators trying to monetize their work in music, art, dance, food, and fashion. The website is most known for adult entertainment. While the site has an 18 and older age policy, some minors are finding ways to access OnlyFans content.
Watch our OnlyFans video.
Overwatch Game (Based in USA, Owned by Blizzard Entertainment)
ESRB Rating: T (Teen)
Smart Social Overwatch Review
Overwatch is a multiplayer first-person shooter game available on Windows, XBox One, and PS4. The game only works if players are matched onto teams with other real people which means that your child will be exposed to strangers in every match.
Watch our Overwatch Game video.
Phhhoto App (Based in USA, Owned by Hold Still Inc.)
NOTE: At the time of this review, Phhhoto was no longer available in the iOS App Store or on Google Play. The creators of Phhhoto have created a similar new app, called HYPNO Cam, that's now available only in the iOS App Store.
Smart Social Phhhoto App Review
Phhhoto was a camera app that allowed users to shoot moving pictures that continually loop to make short movies. There was no option to make an account private and users could only block specific users from seeing their Phhhoto posts. Students without smartphones or email addresses can get access to the app.
Watch our Phhhoto app video.
Randonautica (Based in USA, Owned by Randonaut, LLC)
Apple App Store Rating: 4+
Google Play Rating: E (Everyone)
Smart Social Randonautica App Review
The Randonautica app is a real-life adventure game. The app is free to download and there are no age requirements. Users can “manifest” the type of experience they want to encounter by typing in an intention or what they hope to find. The app then generates a set of random GPS coordinates for the user to travel to. The quantum random number generators often lead users to private property and other potentially dangerous locations.
Watch our Randonautica app video.
Reddit (Based in USA, Owned by Reddit Inc)
Apple App Store Rating: 17+
Google Play Rating: M (Mature 17+)
Smart Social Reddit App Review
Reddit is a website where users can post interesting news, humorous memes, questions about topics, and random information. Registered users can comment and vote posts up or down which determines the post's position on the site’s pages. Parents should be aware that most accounts are anonymous, there are no editors on Reddit – anyone can submit content, users can only downvote or report inappropriate posts, and there is a lot of explicit content.
Watch our Reddit video.
Sarahah App (Based in Saudi Arabia, Owned by Sarahah)
NOTE: This app was removed from the iOS App Store and Google Play in 2018.
Smart Social Sarahah App Review
Sarahah was an app and website that allowed users to send and receive anonymous messages. Teens and tweens sometimes think they can hide behind anonymous screen names and bully others without repercussions. There was no way to report inappropriate content or threats. Many students attached their Sarahah links to their Snapchat and Instagram stories and accounts.
Watch our Sarahah app video.
SayAt.Me App (Based in Estonia, Owned by SayAt.Me OÜ)
Apple App Store Rating: As of May 2020, this app was not available in the iOS App Store.
Google Play Rating: T (Teen)
Smart Social SayAt.Me App Review
SayAt.Me is an anonymous website and app that allows users to gather feedback from others. Anonymous apps are breeding grounds for cyberbullying behavior. Some students feel like they can hide behind anonymity on social media to hurt others. SayAt.Me encourages users to compare their self-image to other people’s opinions which can be damaging to a developing tween or teen.
Watch our SayAt.Me app video.
Secret App
Note: The Secret App was shutdown in 2015 and is no longer available in the iOS App Store or on Google Play.
Smart Social Secret App Review
Secret was an app that allowed users to share messages anonymously within their circle of friends, friends of friends, and publicly. When a user saw a secret about them on the app, they don't know who posted it, but they do know one of their 3-100 connections sent it. This can cause bullying and anxiety. Students often hide behind being anonymous when posting, and forget that anonymous does not mean untraceable.
Watch our Secret app video.
Signal App (Based in USA, Owned by Signal Foundation)
Apple App Store Rating: 12+
Google Play Rating: E (Everyone)
Smart Social Signal App Review
The Signal app is a free private messaging app that promises privacy for users through end-to-end encryption. It is widely used by people - from politicians to famous athletes - who don’t want to risk having others see or hear their personal information, private messages, and photos. Using any private messaging app could lead to negative behavior because students might feel they can hide their actions from their parents.
Watch our Signal app video.
Slingshot App (Based in USA, Owned by Science Mobile)
NOTE: As of May 2020, Slingshot was not available for download in the iOS App Store or on Google Play.
Smart Social Slingshot App Review
Slingshot was a comparison app, marketed to boys, that allowed users to vote or create polls. Slingshot users could create any type of poll, including topic that may not be appropriate for teens.
Watch our Slingshot app video.
Spotafriend App (Based in Canada, Owned by Smart Lamas Inc.)
Apple App Store Rating: 17+
Google Play Rating: M (Mature 17+)
Smart Social Spotafriend App Review
Spotafriend is an app strictly for teens designed to help them find friends. We discourage students from using Spotafriend since there have been instances of adults being able to easily bypass the age restriction. Spotafriend is owned by the creators of MyLOL, a popular teen dating app.
Watch our Spotafriend app video.
Squad App (Based in the USA, Owned by Olabot Inc)
Note: Squad App was acquired by Twitter and shut down in 2020.
Smart Social Squad App Review
Squad was a video chat app that let friends share their screens with each other. Up to nine friends could video chat at the same time. There were no privacy settings or filters to prevent children from chatting with adults. Users can share anything on the internet, which could expose children to inappropriate videos or content.
Watch our Squad app video.
Free Parent Night:
25+ Dangers On TikTok, Snapchat, Instagram, Fortnite, Netflix, YouTube & More (Multiple Dates)
Join Josh for a presentation that will teach you the hidden safety features of TikTok, Instagram, Snapchat, Netflix, Discord, Fortnite, Twitch & more! (Register Here)
StreetChat App
NOTE: This app is no longer available in the iOS App Store or on Google Play.
Smart Social StreetChat App Review
StreetChat was a live photo-sharing board designed for middle school, high school, and college students. Kids feel freedom to send mean posts because they do not have to confirm their identity within the app. This leads to online bullying.
Watch our StreetChat app video.
Tango App (Based in USA, Owned by TangoMe)
Apple App Store Rating: 17+
Google Play Rating: M (Mature 17+)
Smart Social Tango App Review
The Tango app is a social network and messaging app for phones or tablets that uses geo-location. Tango encourages users to talk to strangers. Since the app utilizes geo-location, strangers can may be able to access to your child's location. Watch our Tango app video.
tbh App (Based in USA, Owned by Facebook Inc.)
Note: The tbh App was discontinued in 2018 and is no longer available for download in the iOS App Store or Google Play.
Smart Social tbh App Review
TBH stands for “to be honest” and the tbh app is a social networking platform where users anonymously answer questions/polls about their classmates. There was no verification process on the app so anyone could sign up and say they attend a school in their area, even if they are an adult. This app encouraged users to anonymously critique their classmates, which can promote unhealthy student interactions.
Watch our tbh app video.
Telegram Messenger App (Based in Dubai, Owned by Telegram FZ-LLC)
Apple App Store Rating: 17+
Google Play Rating: M (Mature 17+)
Smart Social Telegram Messenger App Review
Telegram is an app that offers unlimited instant messaging with encryption. The app syncs across devices so that users can access their chats on mobile, desktop, or tablet. This app was temporarily removed from the App Store due to the danger it posed to children, but was made available again.
Watch our Telegram Messenger app video.
Tellonym App (Based in Germany, Owned by Callosum Software)
Apple App Store Rating: 17+
Google Play Rating: T (Teen)
Smart Social Tellonym App Review
The Tellonym app allows students (and strangers) to ask and answer questions anonymously. The Tellonym app can be linked to a user’s Instagram, Snapchat, or Twitter account, allowing students to get inbound anonymous messages from their friends and strangers. When teens connect anonymous apps to their Instagram or Snapchat they open themselves up to being targeted by strangers across platforms (and bullying/threats from people they may not know).
Watch our Tellonym app video.
Text Me App (Based in USA, Owned by TextMe, Inc.)
Apple App Store Rating: 4+
Google Play Rating: E (Everyone)
Smart Social Text Me App Review
The Text Me app offers free texting, calling, and additional phone numbers. In our experience, students will download apps like this so that they can hide their activity from their parents. Even if a user doesn’t have a cellular plan, they can make calls and send texts using the app. Additionally, the Text Me app offers location sharing features which can be incredibly dangerous for students. Watch our Text Me App safety video.
TextNow App (Based in Canada, Owned by TextNow, Inc.)
Apple App Store Rating: 12+
Google Play Rating: E (Everyone)
Smart Social TextNow App Review
The TextNow app turns any wifi connected device into a phone with its own phone number, even if the device doesn’t have a phone plan. With the TextNow app, users can send traditional text/sms messages that won’t show up in their phone bill. There are several reports of predators using this app to target victims. Watch our TextNow app safety video.
Tinder App (Based in USA, Owned by Tinder)
Apple App Store Rating: 17+
Google Play Rating: M (Mature 17+)
Smart Social Tinder App Review
Tinder is a dating app, marketed to adults, that allows users to connect with other Tinder users. Users anonymously swipe right if they’re interested in seeing a user’s profile or they swipe left to pass. If both users express interest or “swipe right” on each other, then those users become a match. Once a user has been matched with another Tinder user they can start chatting with each other in the app. When signing up, users must use a Facebook profile to verify authenticity. Watch our Tinder app safety video.
Tumblr App (Based in USA, Owned by Yahoo! Inc)
Apple App Store Rating: 17+
Google Play Rating: M (Mature 17+)
Smart Social Tumblr App Review
Tumbler is a blogging platform. They encourage users to hide their real identity (by suggesting a default/random fake username on registration). Tumblr has been known to show pornographic information in search results.
Watch our Tumblr app video.
Twenty App (formerly Mappen App) (Based in USA, Owned by Twenty Holdings Inc.)
Apple App Store Rating: 12+
Google Play Rating: T (Teen)
Smart Social Twenty App Review
Twenty app is a social media networking app that focuses on location sharing. Smart Social believes this app is not safe for students because predators can visit your students based on their real-time location.
Watch the Twenty app video.
Voxer App (Based in USA, Owned by Voxer)
Apple App Store Rating: 4+
Google Play Rating: E (Everyone)
Smart Social Voxer App Review
Voxer is a free messaging app that allows users to send real-time voice messages (like a walkie-talkie) to other users. Teens like using Voxer because their activity on the app doesn't appear on their parents' phone bills. By default, profiles are public on Voxer which can be very dangerous.
Watch our Voxer app video.
Walkie Talkie (Based in France, Owned by Picslo Corp)
Apple App Store Rating: 12+
Google Play Rating: T (Teen)
Smart Social Walkie Talkie App Review
The Walkie Talkie app is a free communication app that lets users turn their phone into an old school walkie talkie. There is no way to make a channel private. This means anyone can listen in on a conversation. Students should be reminded of the dangers of chatting with strangers and sharing personal information over the internet before using this app.
Watch our Walkie Talkie app video.
Two Way: Walkie Talkie (Based in USA, owned by Selvaraj LLC)
Apple App Store Rating: 12+
Google Play Rating: T (Teen)
Smart Social Walkie Talkie Apps Review
Two Way: Walkie Talkie is a messaging app that allows users to talk to each other instantly. Teens like using walkie-talkie apps because walkie-talkie messages don't create text or phone call records. Strangers can chat with students easily in this app.
Wattpad (Based in Canada, Owned by Wattpad)
Apple App Store Rating: 17+
Google Play Rating: T (Teen)
Smart Social Wattpad App Review
Wattpad is a relatively unmoderated online storytelling community. One of the major concerns with Wattpad is that teens are posting explicit and inappropriate stories that are connected to their personal Facebook profiles (and shows their profile photo). On Wattpad it is easy for your student to access explicit content and predators are using this site to contact teens.
Watch our Wattpad app video.
WeChat (Based in China, Owned by Tencent)
Apple App Store Rating: 17+
Google Play Rating: E (Everyone)
Smart Social WeChat App Review
WeChat is a free texting, video, and calling app developed in China. WeChat encourages users to chat with strangers nearby or around the world, at random. This feature is incredibly dangerous for teens and tweens.
Watch our WeChat app video.
WhatsGoodly App (Based in USA)
NOTE: This app was shutdown in 2017 and is no longer available in the iOS App Store or on Google Play.
Smart Social WhatsGoodly App Review
WhatsGoodly was an anonymous, location-based, social polling application designed for college students. It had a 17+ age restriction, but younger students could still see polls and vote. There were a lot of questions about dating, relationships, alcohol, and smoking on the app.
Watch our WhatsGoodly app video.
Whisper App (Based in USA, Owned by MediaLab)
Apple App Store Rating: 17+
Google Play Rating: T (Teen)
Smart Social Whisper App Review
Whisper is an anonymous social network that allows people to "express themselves." (Anytime an app encourages students to "express themselves" to strangers, please be very careful). Whisper reveals a user’s location, which makes it easy for people to arrange to meet up. This also makes it easier for predators to locate and connect with users.
Watch our Whisper app video.
Wink App (Based in USA, owned by 9 Count Inc.)
Apple App Store Rating: 12+
Google Play Rating: T (Teen)
Smart Social Wink App Review
The Wink app connects users with strangers. Users find new “friends” by swiping through profiles, like the popular adult dating app, Tinder. Users must be at least 13 with parental permission to use Wink, according to the Terms of Service. However, there is no age verification so kids could easily set their age to over 18 and adults could easily pose as teens to connect with young users. Watch our Wink app video.
Wishbone App (Based in USA, Owned by Mammoth Media Inc)
Apple App Store Rating: 12+
Google Play Rating: T (Teen)
Smart Social Wishbone App Review
Wishbone is a comparison app, marketed to girls, that allows users to vote or create polls. Users can create any type of poll, including polls that are not appropriate for teens. In the beginning, this app would force students to watch inappropriate videos before moving onto the next poll.
Watch our Wishbone app video.
Yubo App (formerly called Yellow) (Based in France, Owned by Twelve APP)
Apple App Store Rating: 17+
Google Play Rating: T (Teen)
Smart Social Yubo App Review
The Yubo app markets itself as a way to make friends even though it’s mostly used as a dating app. This can be confusing for teens and tweens who join the app and are not aware of the intentions of other users. This app is nicknamed “Tinder for Snapchat” and “Tinder for Teens." Yubo app users can join a live group stream or swipe through profiles.
Watch our Yubo app video.
Yik Yak App (Based in USA, Owned by Yik Yak)
Note: Yik Yak was discontinued in April of 2017. Square Inc. purchased the app's intellectual properties, according to TechCrunch.
Smart Social Yik Yak App Review
Yik Yak acted like a local bulletin board for your area by showing the most recent posts from other users around you. Many bomb threats were made on this app. Students sometimes forget that being anonymous on an app does not mean being untraceable. Police departments are quickly able to locate students at home and address them after a threat to school safety.
Watch our Yik Yak app video.
YOLO App (Based in France, Owned by Popshow Inc.)
Apple App Store Rating: 17+
Google Play Rating: T (Teen)
Smart Social YOLO App Review
The Yolo app is an anonymous Q&A app that works seamlessly with Snapchat. If your student uses Snapchat, it is very likely that they could encounter the YOLO app. Anonymous apps can bring out the worst in some tweens and teens when they think others don't know why they are.
Watch our YOLO app video.
YouNow App (Based in USA, Owned by YouNow Media LLC)
Apple App Store Rating: 17+
Google Play Rating: T (Teen)
Smart Social YouNow App Review
YouNow is a popular broadcasting platform where kids can watch and stream real-time videos. Users decide whether broadcasters should continue their live videos with thumbs up and thumbs down voting. Anyone can record the videos that are posted, take screenshots, and bully others with the recordings.
Watch our YouNow app video.
Zello PTT Walkie Talkie (Based in USA, Owned by Zello, Inc. )
Apple App Store Rating: 12+
Google Play Rating: E (Everyone)
Smart Social Walkie Talkie Apps Review
The Zello PTT Walkie Talkie app is another free communication app that lets users turn their phone into an old-school walkie-talkie. Users should assume anyone can listen in on a conversation. Students should be reminded of the dangers of chatting with strangers and sharing personal information over the internet before using this app.
Zynn App (Based in China, Owned by Owlii Inc, a subsidiary of Kuaishou)
Apple App Store Rating: 12+
Google Play Rating: T (Teen)
NOTE: Zynn was removed from both Google Play and the Apple App Store in June 2020 after widespread reports of plagiarism, but has reappeared on both
Smart Social Zynn App Review
Zynn is a TikTok copycat app that pays people to watch videos and refer friends. You don't need an account to watch videos, but you do need an account to make a profile and earn rewards. At the time of our review, Zynn did not offer a content filter or an option to make a profile private. Everything users post on Zynn was public.
Watch our Zynn app video.
DANGEROUS SOCIAL MEDIA CHALLENGES: These are viral social media challenges that are popular with students on almost every social network.
Viral challenges encourage teens to do dangerous things just for likes, views, attention, and subscribers. These challenges usually target students across several social networks and require them to perform dangerous activities. Students have to post proof of them partaking in the dangerous challenge on social media. Often, these challenges have serious repercussions and encourage students to behave in a way we have never seen before.
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The Blue Whale Challenge
Age: 10+
The Blue Whale Challenge is a game teens play to perform harmful tasks over 50 days, with the last task urging the victim to die by suicide. The challenge as a whole is meant to harm students and slowly get them to trust the game. Each challenge in the game shames the student to take another action (or they will share their secrets with the public). Get involved, have a healthy dialog with your students about their day and social media. Pay attention to any changes in your teen’s behavior, especially if they become reserved, withdrawn, or fearful of social media. Consider contacting your teen’s school. If your child has engaged with anything like the Blue Whale Challenge, other students might be engaging with it too. Watch our Blue Whale Challenge video.
Condom Snorting Challenge
Age: 12+
The condom snorting challenge is a viral trend where teens post a video of themselves snorting a condom through their nose and pulling it out of their mouth. While this may sound like a joke, teens have been doing this challenge since 2007. With one YouTube search, our team was able to find videos that were uploaded in April 2018 of teens doing the challenge (2 teens had even live streamed it that same day). This challenge can be very dangerous and can cause choking. Health experts warn of infection or allergic reaction. Viral challenges like this encourage teens to do dangerous things just for likes, views, attention, and subscribers. Watch our Condom Snorting Challenge video.
The Deodorant Challenge
Age: 10+
The deodorant challenge is a viral teen trend where students spray their bare skin (or someone else’s) with aerosol deodorant for as long as they can stand it. The challenge is painful, can have a lasting impact, causes scarring, and is causing some teens to be hospitalized. Knowing about social media challenges and trends before your teen does can help you keep them safe before an incident occurs. Watch our Deodorant Challenge video.
The Fire Challenge
Age: 10+
Some kids across the country are lighting themselves on fire-- or letting their friends ignite them while recording it for social media. It’s called the “Fire Challenge.” The life-threatening internet stunt has been around for a while, but unfortunately, some kids are still attempting it and some of them are getting badly burned in the process. People attempting this challenge spray their bodies with common household accelerants, like nail polish remover or hand sanitizer, and then light themselves on fire. We highly recommend parents discuss the dangers of the Fire Challenge with their kids before they find out about it from their friends. Watch our Fire Challenge video.
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Momo Challenge (A hoax, but important to know about)
Age: 14+
The Momo Challenge is a dangerous viral social media trend with teens and tweens. The challenge encourages students to contact an unknown person called “Momo” via WhatsApp. Throughout the challenge, students are sent violent and graphic images and texts. If students want to stop the challenge “Momo” threatens to leak their personal information. Students who partake in the Momo Challenge are actively communicating with strangers who intend to encourage self-harm. Watch the Momo Challenge video.
Silhouette Challenge on TikTok
Age: 13+
The Silhouette Challenge is a trend on TikTok that puts a red filter on a video that darkens the user’s body while they dance or move to look like a silhouette. Some users are recording the videos partially clothed or nude because they think their body is completely darkened with the red filter. The filter is applied to a user’s video using layering techniques and some hackers have found ways to remove the filter and see the original video. TikTok users are being cautioned to avoid participating in the challenge or to wear clothing they would normally be comfortable being seen wearing in a public setting. Watch the Silhouette Challenge video.
Slender Man
Age: 8+
Slender Man is a fictional character who originated from a viral internet meme. The character is portrayed as a tall, thin, and faceless man in a black suit who goes around traumatizing people. Although he is fictitious, the Slender Man is causing teens to act dangerously. In 2014, two tween girls stabbed a classmate and claimed it was in an attempt to act on behalf of the Slender Man after reading about him online. Watch our Slender Man video.
Shell On Challenge
Age: 12+
The Shell on Challenge is a social media trend that is gaining popularity among students. Teens are challenging each other to eat food items still in their packaging. To partake in the challenge, teens will shoot a video of themselves eating something with the ‘shell on’ and then post that video on social media. It should be a red flag for parents if their child is doing this challenge to gain attention on social media. Watch our Shell On Challenge safety video.
Skullbreaker Challenge
Age: 10+
The Skullbreaker Challenge surfaced on TikTok in late 2019. Three people stand side-by-side. The two people on either end will trick the middle person into dancing or jumping with them to make a video. Then, they kick the unsuspecting person’s feet out from under him/her forcing the victim to fall on the ground. The prank is then posted to social media. There are reports of kids getting concussions or being hospitalized with other injuries after attempting this. Some students have also faced legal consequences for participating in the Skullbreaker Challenge. Watch our Skullbreaker Challenge safety video.
Tide Pod Challenge
Age: 12+
The Tide Pod Challenge encouraged students to consume a plastic laundry detergent pod and post a video of it to social media. At first the challenge started as a joke but now poison control centers are warning parents about this dangerous activity. The Tide Pod Challenge is incredibly dangerous. It’s essentially ingesting poison. Even if a student doesn’t eat the entire laundry detergent pod, just ingesting a tiny bit can lead to serious health repercussions. Watch our Tide Pod Challenge safety video.
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[…] media apps he considers safe for users age 13 and older, as well as those he thinks aren’t; find it here. Ochs discussed both lists in his local talks, but for listeners who forgot some or didn’t […]