SAPD: Mobile App Emerges That May Encourage Cyberbullying

SAN ANGELO, TX — Over the last few days, an app called Sarahah (2 stars, Apple Store) has dramatically increased in popularity as a trendy way for teens to send anonymous social media messages.

The app, which is easily synced to other popular apps like Snapchat and Instagram, lets users send anonymous messages to one another. As with other social media apps, Sarahah has been reported as facilitating cyberbullying and hate speech because users think they can hide behind screen names and bully others without fear of repercussions. Furthermore, there is no filter for explicit content. But, as users already know, it’s pretty easy to find out the identity of other users just by knowing their link or through synced Snapchat and Instagram accounts.

The San Angelo Police Department has therefore asked users to think before they post social media posts, especially unrestrained messages apps like Sarahah implements. Negative messages, even seemingly private and anonymous ones, can impact a student’s digital footprint and have a negative impact on their future when applying to colleges or employers, or, lead to criminal charges in some instances.

In a tech driven world, teens can not be expected to be unplugged but there are ways to teach them to become good digital citizens. To learn more about basic guidelines for teens and parents about cyberbullying, sexting, social networking, and more please visit http://www.connectsafely.org.