A new dating app that has exactly the same look and feel as Tinder (swipe to the left, swipe to the right, make judgements  with just a photo, etc.) except it is directly linked to Snapchat, so you can start sending snaps straight away.
 
I became aware of Yellow after a school contacted our helpline asking if we had any info. Unfortunately, the school was ringing because a number of students are already using the app. In the app store it says that it is only for people 17 and over, but you enter your own date of birth. Having had a quick flick though potential suitors today I was genuinely surprised that a lot of the males popping up were in their mid to late 20s, however most of the girls were a lot younger.
 
A redeeming feature about this app is that it also asks for your mobile number as part of the sign up process, which offers a level of accountability and traceability. On the app store it’s sold as “make new friends on Snapchat”, however if it was just about friendship I can’t understand why they also ask for your gender and the gender you’re “interested” in, not to mention the amount of  six packs and pouts on profile pictures.  The safety concerns are obvious, ultimately it would be absolutely fine if only adults were using the app however as it is a Snapchat add-on, and it has an even younger feel than Tinder, I can see that it is probably quite appealing to young people. 
 
It’s one to keep an eye out for. Obviously there are the traditional “stranger danger” safety messages surrounding this but it also taps into a bigger,wider issue around body image and self-esteem. What about people that get no swipes right, and how many selfies do people feel they need to take to get the perfect profile pic?

The Professionals Online Safety Helpline can help all professionals working with children and young people with any online safety issues. Contact us on 0844 3814772 or email helpline@saferinternet.org.uk. 

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