As new social media apps keep popping up, parents have to wonder if they are safe for their kids. The latest app to raise eyebrows is the Clubhouse app—a new social media platform based on audio content. The app has features "rooms" where users can join to listen to or participate in conversations on various topics. The app has been growing in popularity, especially with celebrities, but it's also raising concerns for parents. This has prompted concerned parents to ask, "Is Clubhouse safe for kids?"
Here's what you need to know about the Clubhouse app and whether it is safe for your kids.
Part 1: What is Clubhouse?
The Clubhouse app is an invitation-only social media app that is based on audio content. The app has features "rooms" where users can join to listen to or participate in conversations on various topics. However, as we earlier mentioned, compared to other popular social media sites such as Facebook, Instagram, or Twitter - Clubhouse is an audio-only platform, which means the app doesn't provide a way to share text, pictures, or videos publicly.
Voice conversations are not recorded and occur in real-time, making it impossible to listen to the conversation again once it is over. The app also doesn't have any way to search for old discussions or specific topics. Instead, you can only listen to conversations in "real-time."
Rooms can accommodate thousands of people, and anyone in the room can choose to speak. When someone is speaking, their icon turns green, and everyone else's icons turn grey. You can raise your hand to signal that you would like to talk next. The app also allows users to create "clubs" where members can join groups based on shared interests. That has made the app incredibly popular with celebrities and people in the entertainment industry. During the epidemic, Clubhouse rose in popularity as a method for people to socialize and network from afar. Over ten million users now use the service.
Clubhouse was initially available on iOS devices, but as of May this year, the app is now available on Android devices.
Part 2: Clubhouse Age Rating
While the app is technically only available to users at least 18 years old, there is no verification process to ensure that users are this age. Thus, kids can quickly join the app and participate in conversations without restriction. The app also doesn't have any filters or parental controls, which can cause kids to be exposed to adult content. However, most social media apps are designed for 18+ and don't have filters or parental controls. Whether these apps are appropriate for kids is up to the parents to decide.
Part 3: Is Clubhouse Appropriate for Kids?
So, is the Clubhouse app safe for kids? Unfortunately, there is no easy answer. The app does have some privacy features, such as choosing who can join your "room" and the option to make your profile private. However, there are also some serious concerns about the app.
Step1: Difficult to moderate conversations
Because Clubhouse is based on audio content, it's difficult to moderate the discussions that are taking place. One of the biggest concerns is that the app doesn't have any moderation or content filtering. Anyone can join a conversation, and there's no way to know what the discussion will be about, which could lead to kids being exposed to inappropriate language or topics. In addition, because the app is invitation-only, there is a risk that kids could be bullied or excluded from groups.
Step2: Anonymity
Another concern about Clubhouse is the anonymity of the app. Users can use fake names, and there is no verification process. Thus, anyone can join the app with a fake identity. It could lead to kids being targeted by predators or bullies.
Step3: Inappropriate content
As we mentioned, Clubhouse doesn't have any content filtering. Users can share whatever they want, including explicit language or images. In addition, because the app is audio-only, there is a risk that kids could be exposed to offensive or derogatory comments.
Step4: Hate speech
There have been reports of hate speech on the Clubhouse app that could expose kids to racist, sexist, or homophobic language.
However, Clubhouse does have safety features like blocking and reporting users. If your teen child blocks someone, that person cannot join any room your kids are in. They will also be unable to see your kid's profile. The app is only available to people over the age of 18. In addition, the app is not connected to other social media sites. However, predators may try to get your kids' other social media accounts, then share more information via text message.
Part 4: How to Make Clubhouse Safer for Kids?
If it is impossible to keep your kids away from Clubhouse completely, there are some tips you can take to make the app safer for them.
Tips1: Explain the risks
Talk to your kids about the dangers of using social media and sharing personal information online. Ensure they understand that they should never share their full name, address, or other identifying information on the app.
Tips2: Set up privacy controls
Help your child set up their profile so that only people they know can join their room. But caution that they still need to avoid sharing personal information in rooms even if they are around familiar partners.
Tips3: Monitor usage
Check in with your kids regularly to see how they're using the app, or grant them access to it only when you are present.
Tips4: Report any problems
If you see anything on the app that makes you concerned, report it to the Clubhouse team. You can also block and report users who are misbehaving.
Tips5: Discuss the importance of age restrictions
Talk to your kids about why the app is only available to people over 18. Explain that this protects them from being exposed to inappropriate content or predators.
Tips6: Use family accounts instead of personal accounts for all social media apps
Family accounts allow parents to see everything their children do on an app, which includes the ability to monitor activities, set privacy controls, and view content that has been shared.
Part 5: What is Wondershare FamiSafe?
It is still challenging for parents to keep kids away from the app or other apps like Clubhouse, though with the suggestions provided above. If this is the case for you, consider using a parental control app like Wondershare FamiSafe.
Wondershare FamiSafe is a parental control app that allows you to monitor your child's activity on their phone, including seeing who they're talking to, what apps they're using, and what websites they're visiting. You can also set limits on their screen time and see where they are. In addition, the app has a built-in content filter that allows you to block inappropriate websites and apps.
The following video will show you the specific steps to use Wondershare FamiSafe to restrict your kids' screen time.
In the case of Clubhouse, some of the valuable features that FamiSafe can provide are:
1. View app usage history
You can see how much time your child spends on the Clubhouse app and set limits if necessary.
2. Monitor content shared
You can see what content your child is sharing on the app and block or report inappropriate users.
3. App blocker
You can block Clubhouse (and any other app) from being installed on your child's phone.
4. Activity report
You can see a report of your child's activity on their phone, including the apps they're using, the websites they're visiting, and how much time they've spent on the app or entire device.
5. Explicit content detection
FamiSafe can also detect explicit content in texts, images, and videos.
6. Location sharing
You can use FamiSafe to track your child's location at all times, establish geofences to be alerted if they leave a specific area, and more.
Conclusion
Clubhouse is a new social media app that has gained popularity among kids and adults alike. The app can be an excellent way for kids to socialize and connect with friends. However, there are some risks associated with it. Parents need to take action to protect kids from being side affected by the dark sides of the app. Hope you would find the article helpful.