In January 2018, Facebook launched a new messaging app designed specifically for children under the age of 13, called Messenger Kids. This initiative appears to be Facebook’s strategic move to capture a share of the engaging social media market currently dominated by platforms like Snapchat and YouTube, all while marketing it as a “kid-friendly” option.
Before giving your children unrestricted access to Messenger Kids, there are several important factors to consider. Under the Children’s Online Privacy Protection Act (COPPA), tech companies generally refrain from creating apps that require personal information from minors without parental consent. Messenger Kids navigates this by requiring parental approval and linking the app to a parent’s Facebook account for setup and monitoring.
How Does Messenger Kids Function?
This app is a standalone application available for tablets, smartphones, and, more recently, the Kindle Fire. It allows children to safely connect with family and friends through video chats and messaging, contingent upon parental oversight. Kids can add contacts only after receiving approval from their parents, and they have access to various features such as stickers, GIFs, and filters for creative expression.
When registering for the app, parents must create a profile for their child using their full name, which could raise concerns for many families. Moreover, parents can manage multiple profiles if they have more than one child interested in using Messenger Kids.
Advertising and Data Collection
As for advertising, Messenger Kids is free from ads and in-app purchases, with Facebook assuring users that information collected from children will not be utilized for marketing. However, it’s essential to remain cautious, as this policy could evolve, potentially allowing for targeted advertisements based on children’s interactions with the app.
Another critical aspect is the collection of data. Being part of the Facebook ecosystem means that Messenger Kids inevitably gathers extensive information about both the child and their interactions. The app will record names, messages, and even multimedia content shared by users. This data is stored indefinitely and may be leveraged for various purposes in the future. When children reach the age of 13, Facebook can easily transition their Messenger Kids account into a full Facebook account, retaining all previously established connections.
Privacy Concerns
Concerns surrounding privacy have escalated, especially after Facebook faced significant fines in Europe for failing to adhere to privacy policies. Advocacy groups are urging Facebook to commit to maintaining a safe environment for children, free from advertising and the priming of young users for adult accounts.
Despite Facebook’s claims of developing Messenger Kids with input from child development experts and organizations like the National PTA, the underlying question remains: is this initiative genuinely designed to protect children, or is it a funnel for future Facebook users?
Additional Resources
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Conclusion
In summary, while Messenger Kids aims to provide a safe communication platform for children, parents must remain vigilant regarding privacy and data collection practices. It’s crucial to weigh the pros and cons before allowing your child to engage with this app.