Now more than ever because of the ever-changing technological world that we live in, it is essential that we equip our children with the knowledge and skills to ensure that they know how to use the internet safely.
Each week, we will be sharing an age-appropriate guide for parents to share with their child when having conversations about online safety, should they feel it is needed.
This week’s guide is about ‘HiPal’, which is a trending social media app that turns phones into walkie-talkies, allowing people to have voice conversations with friends or strangers. There are two account options: one for users aged under 12 and one for those aged 12 or above. The former has fewer features and limits interaction with strangers; enabling use of the walkie-talkie feature or photo sharing with friends and family only. The 12+ accounts offer more options, including adding strangers as friends, sharing photos and videos publicly, send private messages and holding voice chats with strangers as well as friends.
In the guide, you’ll find tips on a number of potential risks such as contact with strangers, dangerous challenges and intrusive features.
If you have any questions or concerns about Online Safety, please contact the school office.
