Online Safety briefing - December
Mon 01 Dec 2025
Group Chats – What Parents and Carers Need to Know
Group chats are private online conversations between more than two people. They are popular on apps like WhatsApp, Snapchat, Instagram, Discord, and in online games such as Roblox. Young people enjoy them because they make it easy to keep in touch, share information, and feel connected.
Benefits:
- Quick and convenient way to talk with friends or family
- Easy to share information, links, and photos
- Can help young people feel part of a community
Risks and challenges:
- Online bullying, exclusion, and harmful content (e.g. hate speech or inappropriate images)
- Peer pressure to stay active and respond quickly, leading to stress or lack of sleep
- Sharing of personal information or private conversations without consent
- Fear of missing out (FOMO) when chats happen late at night or move quickly
How parents can help:
- Remember most social media apps are 13+. For younger children, talk to other parents and make a family decision.
- If your child uses group chats, set clear expectations about being respectful and responsible.
- Show them how to use tools like mute, block, report, and privacy settings.
- Remind them group chats are not fully private—messages can be saved or shared.
- Encourage open conversations—check in regularly and make sure they know they can come to you if worried.