Kik Messenger is an instant messaging application that allows users to share photos, sketches, mobile webpages, and other content. Kik Messenger uses an existing Wi-Fi connection or data plan to send and receive messages and requires a username to register.

 

What parents need to know…

 

Age requirements – Kik Messenger is rated 17+ in the app store – it was 13+, but was upgraded when it introduced “cards,” or apps within the app, including one that is similar to Snapchat.

 

Social Media Integrated – The biggest problems with Kik Messenger occur when it is combined with other social media accounts. There are no security settings and most kids’ link it to other social media applications – which means that random people can contact you. If your child’s Instagram (or Facebook, Twitter, Tumblr) profile is public and they use it to publicize their Kik Messenger username, then anyone who sees that profile can find them on Kik Messenger. Keep an eye on the messages your children are receiving and be aware that once your child opens the Kik App, it stays on – get them to change their password now and then.

 

Sexually Explicit Videos – Although Kik Messenger has a policy against posting sexually explicit content, pornographic images and videos continue to be posted on the instant messaging application.