The Hidden World of Dangerous Apps for Kids
By Amit Kalley
Many parents believe they know what’s on their child’s phone. A quick glance reveals TikTok, YouTube or Roblox, and it feels safe enough. But behind the home screen, children often access hundreds of other apps that parents have never heard of. Some of these apps can be deeply unsafe, exposing children to strangers, explicit content or unfiltered conversations.
Children are downloading and using apps faster than parents can keep up. Some even disguise them to avoid detection, using fake calculator apps or hidden folders. Others have multiple accounts or use anonymous platforms where identities are impossible to verify.
The Periodic Table highlights apps that can create risk through their features, not necessarily because every child will be harmed.
Gaming apps like Roblox or Fortnite can expose children to strangers through in-game chat.
Social media platforms such as Snapchat and TikTok encourage constant sharing and challenges.
Anonymous apps like Wizz, NGL or Whisper allow anyone to message your child without revealing who they are.
Live streaming apps such as Yubo or Twitch enable real-time interaction with strangers.
AI chatbots like Replika or Character.ai can mimic friendship or romance in worrying ways.
What Parents Can Do
Check devices together. Look at installed and recently deleted apps.
Talk regularly. Stay curious rather than critical when discussing what your child is using.
Set clear rules. Agree on what can be downloaded and when devices can be used.
Stay informed. New apps appear every week, and awareness is your best defence.
Children don’t need perfect parents, but they do need informed ones. When we understand the digital world they live in, we can help them navigate it safely.
