Apps can pose threat to kids

PERKINS TWP. — Feb. 11 marked Safe Internet Day, "a perfect time to talk with your family about staying safe online," according to a Perkins police statement. The department posted several apps and the potential risks associated with them that parents should know about: • Snapchat — disappearing photos/videos can be screenshotted and saved • Skout — location-based dating app where kids can fake their age • X (Twitter) — public conversations and direct messages known for bullying • Omegle — chat with strangers, risks include explicit content and predators • Instagram — public profiles allow strangers to comment and message • Grindr — GPS-based dating app for LGBTQ+ individuals • WhatsApp — worldwide messaging with no parental controls • Roblox — in-app purchases and hidden chat features pose safety concerns • Badoo — social networking and dating app, teens can create fake profiles • Kik — bypasses traditional messaging, no age verification • Hily — GPS-based dating app with private video sharing • Discord — gaming chat app with unmoderated conversations • MeetMe — encourages in-person meetups with strangers • Whisper — anonymous secret-sharing app with location tracking • Monkey — live video chat with strangers worldwide • Among Us — multiplayer game with chat capabilities • AskFM — anonymous question-and-answer app known for cyberbullying • Holla — video chat app that connects users randomly • Best Secret Folder — designed to hide photos/videos with password protection • Live Me — live-streaming app that exposes exact locations • Yik Yak — anonymous app known for bullying • Calculator% — hides files, photos browser history • Reddit — open forums with no identity verification, allowing explicit content "Parents and guardians: Knowledge is power," the statement read. "Stay informed, have open discussions and set digital boundaries to help keep kids safe online."