The internet has become an essential part of modern life, influencing how we communicate, learn, and work. However, the increasing reliance on digital platforms comes with risks, such as cyber threats, data breaches, and online harassment. To address these concerns, Internet Safety Day, also known as Safer Internet Day, is observed annually to promote awareness about responsible internet use and digital security.
Launched in 2004 by the European Union’s SafeBorders project, Safer Internet Day has evolved into a global initiative supported by governments, organizations, and individuals. It aims to create a safer online environment where users of all ages can navigate digital spaces without fear of cyber risks. The event highlights the need for digital responsibility and awareness to combat issues like cyberbullying, misinformation, and online scams.
SNAPCHAT allows users to send photos and videos that disappear after they’re received, but pictures don’t completely disappear from a device and users can take a screenshot before an image vanishes
SKOUT is a location-based dating app and website. While users under 17 are unable to share private photos, kids can easily create an account using a different age
X is a networking site for “public” conversations or direct messages. It also has been used for bullying or harassment
OMEGLE lets users chat with strangers through text or video in real-time, with no registration required. While it can be used for casual conversations, users have reported encountering inappropriate content, cyberbullying, explicit material, and even predatory behavior.
INSTAGRAM is a photo/video sharing app. Profiles can be public allowing anyone to see or comment. Teens can create fake accounts to hide content and use the messaging feature
GRINDER is a dating app geared toward gay, bi and transgender people. The app gives users options to chat, share photos and meet up based on a smart phone’s GPS location
WHATSAPP is a messaging app that allows users to send texts, photos, voicemails, make calls and video chats worldwide. The app uses an internet connection on smart phones and computers
BADOO is a dating and social networking app where users can chat, share photos & videos and connect based on location. While the app is for adults, teens are known to create profiles.
ROBLOX is an online gaming platform where users can play games designed by others or create and share their own. Be aware of in-app purchases chat features, “condo” games and using “signs” to communicate if chat is blocked
BADOO is a dating and social networking app where users can chat, share photos & videos and connect based on location. While the app is for adults, teens are known to create profiles
KIK allows anyone to contact and direct messages to your child. Kids can bypass traditional text messaging features. KIK gives users unlimited access to anyone, anywhere, anytime
HILY is a dating app where users can browse photos, engage in chats, send private videos and more. Based on GPS location of phone, strangers can arrange to meet up locally
DISCORD allows users to talk to friends or strangers in real-time via voice/text or video chat while playing games. Users have seen racial slurs, explicit content, cyberbullying and more
MEETME is a dating social media app that allows users to connect with people based on geographic proximity. As the app’s name suggests, users are encouraged to meet each other in person
WHISPER is an anonymous social network that promotes sharing secrets with strangers. It also reveals a user’s location so people can meet up
MONKEY is a live video chat app that connects users to random strangers worldwide, offering group chat and private message options. Rated for 12+, but has mild sexual content and nudity
AMONG US is a space-themed online multiplayer social game where players can message and chat with each other
ASKFM is known for cyber bullying. The app encourages users to allow people to ask and chat anonymously with them in 40 different languages
HOLLA is a video chat app that allows users to meet people all over the world in seconds
BEST SECRET FOLDER is specifically meant to hide photos and videos. It features password protection, decoy videos and alarm settings
LIVE ME is a live-streaming video app that uses geolocation to share videos so users can find out a broadcaster’s exact location. Users can earn ‘coins’ to pay minors for photos
YIK YAK is a location-based network app to connect with people around your location. It is an anonymous virtual bulletin board known for bullying
CALCULATOR% is only one of several secret apps used to hide photos, videos, files and browser history
REDDIT is a chat/discussion board app. Users can post whatever they want without identity verification. Reviewers have been confronted with racial slurs, explicit content & more.
