Adam Ezekiel – Director of Students (7-12)

Harmful mobile app – ‘Sendit’

We want to inform you of the dangers of an App that we are aware a number of Emanuel students, particularly in Years 7-9, are using called Sendit.

Sendit is an add-on app for Snapchat that lets users ask questions and get anonymous answers, as well as play augmented reality games. There are a number of significant risks for teens in having questions answered anonymously. As it adds this anonymous messaging capability to Snapchat, the primary danger becomes the possibility of online bullying. The anonymous nature of these messages would make addressing any antisocial interactions that take place on this platform all but impossible to address.

We are concerned about the potential negative impact that Sendit can have on young people’s mental health and wellbeing. Anonymity can result in individuals asking inappropriate, hurtful, or even harmful questions, possibly leading to cyberbullying, harassment, and emotional distress. The anonymity provided by this app makes it difficult to hold individuals accountable for their actions or words.

As educators and parents, it is our responsibility to protect the children in our care from potential harm and to equip them with the necessary tools to navigate the digital world safely. We urge you to have open and honest conversations with your children about the dangers of anonymous online interactions and to encourage them to use the internet responsibly.

Three ways to be aware of the use of an app like Sendit:

1. Talk to your children about your expectations about what types of apps are appropriate and how they should be used.
2. If you wish to allow your children to pick apps, but with your permission – set up Family Sharing (iPhone) or Family Link (Android).
3. If you want to prevent access to app stores altogether – turn off the App Store in Screen Time (iPhone) or use an App Lock (Android).

If you have any concerns or questions regarding this, please do not hesitate to contact your child’s Head of House.