​

TikTok is a video-sharing social media app available on iOS and Android which lets users create, share, and view user created videos similar to Facebook, Instagram and Snapchat. It’s main draw, however, is that users can record and upload bite-sized looping videos of themselves lip-syncing and dancing to popular music or soundbites, often for comedic effect, which can then be further enhanced with filters, emojis and stickers.

​

The challenge has often been reported as the Momo Suicide Challenge alleging that children and young people are contacted by a mysterious character called Momo and have to participate in several online challenges with the last challenge being to commit suicide. It is reported that if they fail to complete the challenges they are threatened and receive abusive communication from Momo including phone calls.

​

Google Stadia marks the tech giant’s first proper foray into the world of video games. In a nutshell, Stadia beams its catalogue of video games directly into your house via Wi-Fi, allowing you to play on compatible mobiles, tablets, computers and televisions with console quality. The technology opens up a whole new world of accessibility for those who don’t want to commit to the console cycle, but the risks of online gaming remain ever present.

Launched in 1997, Netflix is now one of the world’s leading online streaming services, providing unlimited access to a huge selection of TV shows and films. It’s available on any internet-connected device that supports the Netflix app, from smart TVs and games consoles to tablets and smartphones, and is becoming increasingly popular with a younger audience. This is unsurprising given consumer attitudes are changing more towards video-on-demand (VoD) services.

​

Risks and concerns around children playing the online game Fortnite, which has a 12 rating but is played by much younger children.

There is an emerging trend, where people are playing strip Fortnite using webcams. The rule is that when you achieve a “kill” you have to strip off, potentially adding an additional risk from children being exposed to and/or sharing indecent images whilst playing the game.

​

We're excited to announce that our FREE mobile app for parents is now available to download via your app store:

The app makes our award-winning resources even easier to use by giving you free access through any smart phone. It’s a simple and flexible way to get authoritative, helpful guidance on online safety issues – whenever and wherever you choose.

More Info