Popular applications among teenagers

Description

Video-sharing app, with soundtrack and special effects.

Wide range of posts: music, comedy, choreography, fashion, political speeches and advocacy, etc.

Users sign up and follow other users. They comment, appreciate (“Like” button) and share content. They can also take part in popular challenges and interact through direct messaging.

Some users gain considerable popularity and become influencers, known as Tiktokers.

Risks

The full range of the application’s features is only available through a public account. Accordingly, online presence and popularity are highly valued.

An array of explicit and inappropriate content is available on the app and is not systematically removed.

Direct messaging may result in inappropriate messages.

Description

One of the more popular social media platforms among teens.

Photo and video sharing application, through timelines, stories (posts that disappear after a twenty-four-hour period) or reels (short videos, similar to TikTok’s). Live video broadcasts are also available.

Users subscribe and follow other users’ posts. They comment, appreciate (“Like” button) and share content. Users can also alter their pictures and videos with filters and special effects.

The application has an integrated direct message (a.k.a. a DM) system.

It also has its very own star system of Instagram influencers. They have a large number of followers and, accordingly, a very high online profile. They can share sponsored posts as part of a paid collaboration with a given business.

Risks

The full range of the application’s features is only available through a public account. Accordingly, online presence and popularity are highly valued.

An array of explicit and inappropriate content is available on this application and is not systematically removed. New explicit content is posted on a daily basis.

Direct messaging may result in inappropriate messages or requests to share intimate photos.

It is easier to share explicit or inappropriate messages during live broadcasts given that they fall beyond the application’s security features.

Description

Free application where short-lived photos and videos are shared. Most messages disappear after a few seconds, though some posts (stories, specifically) are available for twenty-four hours.

Sums up and displays the number of shares between users, and qualifies relationships using a share and emoji scoring system.

Offers various graphic filters and tools to touch up pictures and videos as well as a password-protected photo album.

SnapMap displays in real time the geolocation of application users. Users can enter Ghost Mode to stop sharing their location on the map.

Risks

The full range of the app’s features is only available through a public account.

Direct messaging may result in inappropriate messages or requests to share intimate photos.

The ephemeral nature of these messages encourage many users to send photos and videos of a sexual nature.

Broadcasting users’ location in real time with Snap Map may lead to undesirable situations (jealousy and conflicts, cyberharassment, etc.)

Tips for parents

When your teen asks for access to a certain application, start by downloading it on your own device to test its various features. Have a look at existing content and identify the components you want to discuss with your child to ensure they stay safe and sound.