Jott Messenger is an app that allows students to send individual and group 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
- Users create a profile that can link to their profiles on other social networks, explore other profiles, group chat, and join a squad (group of users)
- Share your goals, interests, photos and videos to your public story or to individual users
Jott Messenger in the news
The names of other kids using [Jott Messenger] are being shared with not just strangers, but adult strangers. –Cyber Safety Consulting
- “As with all messaging apps, users can basically send or receive anything, especially when pictures are involved.” –Common Sense Media
“The names of other kids using [Jott Messenger] are being shared with not just strangers, but adult strangers.” –Cyber Safety Consulting
Why should parents care?
Without proof that they are a student, users can add any school and see the profiles of students that go there.
- Jott Messenger provides a way for students without the data plan needed to text, or a smartphone, to still message with their friends
- Students’ profile pictures are emailed to anyone they invite to use the app, including strangers and adults
- Like Snapchat, Jott includes a “self-destructing” feature that lets the user decide when a message, photo, or video will disappear
- Without proof that they are a student, users can add any school and see the basic profiles of students that go to that school
What can parents do?
Just because a photo, video, or post “self-destructs”, doesn’t mean that the message will remain private.
- Ensure your student knows that just because their photo, video, or post “self-destructs”, it doesn’t mean their message will remain private
- Teach your teens to judge a photo or message before they send anything through Jott, texting, or on social media
- Challenge students to contemplate whether or not their post could negatively affect their online reputation
If your teen uses Jott Messenger:
- Discuss the safety concerns of other students sharing your student’s personal information with strangers
- Ask them to delete the app
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