What it is
NGL and similar “ask me anything” apps let people send a question without a name. Children post the link on a social account they already have. The replies feel exciting, then they turn cruel or sexual.
Because the sender is hidden, a child cannot tell a friend from a stranger, or a joke from someone testing what they will answer.
What to look out for
- A link in their bio that says people can ask them anything.
- Screenshots of anonymous questions that mention their body, school, or a secret.
- A low mood after reading replies.
- A second app that does the same job under another name.
Ways to stay safe
These steps are for NGL. The house rules still apply on every app.
- Remove the app and the link from their other profiles.
- Tell them anonymous questions are a common way to be unkind, not a sign that everyone is obsessed with them.
- If a question includes a threat or a sexual demand, keep the screenshot and use the help page.
- Do not let them open a replacement “ask” app the same week.
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.
- FTC bans anonymous messaging app NGL from users under 18 Regulators said an anonymous question app was marketed to teenagers and did not stop bullying. Ask.fm, NGL and Tellonym are that kind of app.
A way to start the conversation
You can say: "If someone will not put their name on a question, you do not have to answer it. We are taking this off. If any of the questions scared you, I want to see them."
Video
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.