WhatsApp is a text and voice messaging app, which is owned by Facebook. It has become incredibly popular with students. We are aware of a few minor issues associated with student use.
As a free service, WhatsApp allows for messages and calls on both desktop and mobile devices. WhatsApp has a simple interface that showcases your chats in text bubbles.
Students using Whatsapp connect with others in their contacts list. Students are setting up groups which they then share with others; sharing their contact details which increases their contact list. It is important for students to be aware that when added to a group, their phone number will be made available to others. The ‘others’ can then add the number to their contacts. When adding contacts they are trusting that the information is correct eg. The number belongs to a classmate, team mate or school friend.
Students are becoming increasingly careful and are taking important precautions. However, the monitoring of student social networks is essential. Within the app there are many options available, including blocking numbers. Students can also make choices around the groups they are involved in. Some students are adding a bio, which members of the group can see. Some students are taking the precautions not to join groups and many are choosing or have been instructed not to use the app at all.
Please discuss social media use and work alongside your child. It is important that there is a partnership where children are guided and educated around safe digital use. Working through privacy settings can be valuable learning.
It is also important that students screenshot and report any inappropriate communication so that support can be given.
The minimum age of use for WhatsApp is 16 years old. It had previously dropped to 13 years old but in April 2018 returned to 16, as a response to data-protection legislation.
Below are some useful links that may be of use.