Kik is a mobile messaging application that can be used on both android and iPhone. The popular app which is free to use is similar to Viber and WhatsApp but has some additional functions that differentiate it. For example, an internal browser, meaning users are encouraged to spend more time within the app.
- One to one chatting
- Send messages, videos, pictures, gifs, etc.
- Group chat (with up to 49 other users)
- Anonymous chat
- Promoted Chats allow users to follow and chat with different brands in music, entertainment and more. Users will know a promoted account by the Green Star beside their profile.
Are there any restrictions?
If your child is under 16 and has created a Kik account, the messaging app encourages parents to submit a deactivation request by contacting Note: Use the subject line ‘Parent Inquiry’ and include your child’s Kik username and age in your message. Note: The app currently has an age rating of 17+ on the app store.
Who can my child talk to?
The app allows users to connect with people in their phone book/contact list who already have a Kik account. This option can also be turned off by going to settings > chat settings > and turning off address book matching. By turning off address book matching, your child can only talk to people who know their username.
Your username is your identity on Kik. This means details like email address or telephone number aren’t made public on the app. To add someone as a connection on Kik, you must know their username. The app recommends users choose a username that is hard to guess, this will help minimise contact from strangers or people that your child may not know or want to talk to. Continue reading «What to do if my child receives an unwanted message»