What it is
Monkey is a video chat app that matches you with someone you do not know. It has circulated heavily among teenagers. The match is the product. You do not choose from people you already trust.
Random video chat exposes a child to adults, to sexual content, and to requests to move the conversation somewhere more private. Popularity at school does not change that.
What to look out for
- The app appearing, disappearing, and being reinstalled.
- Friends daring each other to "see who you get".
- Follow-up usernames on Snapchat, Discord, or Kik.
- A child who is upset after a short session and will not say why.
Ways to stay safe
These steps are for Monkey. The house rules still apply on every app.
- Remove it.
- Ask what they saw and whether anyone asked for a photo or a username.
- If the contact was sexual or threatening, use the help page.
- Tell them dares are not a reason to stay on a camera with a stranger. You will back them if they refuse.
In the news
Published reports you can read yourself. A headline is the proof, not a set of instructions, and this page does not repeat graphic detail.
- Ofcom looks at limits on gifts and recording a child’s livestream This 2025 BBC report is about Ofcom’s plans for livestreams. Monkey pairs a child with a stranger on video. The report that names that pattern is the BBC’s account of Omegle closing.
- Omegle shut down after abuse claims This report is about Omegle. This app pairs a child with a stranger in the same way. It is a reason to keep it off the device, not a guide to using it.
A way to start the conversation
Say: "I know people at school have it. In this house a random person does not get the camera. If you already saw something that shook you, I want to hear it."
Video
Monkey parent briefing
A short video for this guide can be added by an editor. Until then, the written briefing above is the one to use.