Created in 2016, by three students, Tellonym is an anonymous messaging app that lets users ask and answer questions from registered and non-registered users.
Tellonym is an anonymous app that encourages users to ask others’ questions. Then, Tellonym users respond to the Tells (messages) publicly.
Created in 2016, the Tellonym app is still used by many worldwide.
Tellonym users can receive anonymous messages through the platform which are called Tells. Every Tell is sent and received to the recipient’s private inbox, which no one else can see. Then, only if a user decides to answer a Tell, both the original Tell and the answer becomes visible to other users.
The Tellonym app can also connect with Instagram, Twitter and Snapchat. As such, there is less control for where or who Tells come from.
With any online messaging app or platform, there are several potential risks that come with it. Risks on Tellonym include cyberbullying and abuse, sexting and inappropriate content.
As the app’s main function is to connect with others anonymously, there is greater risk for harm. Additionally, stopping the source of unwanted messages becomes more difficult.
While Tellonym has an age rating of 17+ on the Apple App Store and a Teen rating on the Google Play Store, the platform says users must be over the age of majority in their country or have parental consent. However, even with parental consent, some features are limited to users aged 17 and over.
There are several privacy and safety features available with Tellonym. Some are easier than others to use while others require some set up.
Tellonym has the following controls you can apply with your teen:
Visit Tellonym’s help centre for instructions on how to use these features.
It’s important to remember that Tellonym recommends the app for those over 18. While you can provide permission for your child to use the service if they’re under this age, doing so opens them up to more risk.
If your teen is 17+ or you believe they’ve reached a point where they can use it, consider the following to keep them safe.
Help your teen think about what they share online and who sees it. Compare it to what they would be happy to share offline. Remind them that they shouldn’t share private things, such as:
Talking to your child about what is going on online and offline and risks will help them gain an understanding and develop their digital resilience. Our advice and tips can help you start these conversations.
Work with them to set up their privacy settings on Tellonym. Talk through the importance of each feature and come to an agreement on what the settings should look like. Down the line, revisit them based on experience and age.
See step-by-step guides for setting up parental controls and safety settings across social media platforms.
See articles and resources to help children stay safe online.
Tellonym: How we safeguard our users
