Hoop is an app that lets you add users from around the world through Snapchat. People you don’t know can also request to add you, so we wouldn’t recommend this app for under 18s.
Official age rating
If you see something inappropriate on someone’s profile, use the flag icon to report them.
Hoop lets you connect with other users on Snapchat from around the world. This means you can talk to people you don’t know, either individually or in groups.
We don’t think this feature is appropriate for under 18s because it means children could be at a higher risk of being sent something inappropriate or talking someone they don’t know.
Take your child through Childline’s staying safe online page so you can talk about the risks and how to stay safe.
It’s important to remember that risks online can come from people you know as well as people you don’t but this feature doesn’t seem safe.
You might want to explore our Net Aware reviews to help find an app, site or game that might be more suitable for your child. Here are some things you might want to look out for:
• Age ratings
• Parental controls
• Chat features
Hoop is all about adding new friends on Snapchat. That’s why we also recommend exploring Snapchat with your child.
Talk about about what’s good to share on Snapchat and what’s best to keep private. And go through Snapchat’s safety features together.
Help your child think about what they share online and who sees it. Compare it to what they would be happy to share offline.
Use examples that are easy for them to understand: “You shouldn't give your number to somebody you don't know on the street. Is somebody online you don't know any different?”
Listen to their answers. And be positive and encouraging.
Remind them that they shouldn’t share private things, such as:
Your child might come across an inappropriate or upsetting profile on Hoop. If they do, show them how to report the profile by selecting the flag icon in the top right corner.
Remind your child they can talk to you about anything they’ve seen. Or they can talk to another adult they trust, like a teacher, or a Childline counsellor.
Other users can send ‘Snap requests’ on Hoop. This means they want to become a Snapchat friend.
On the request, you can decline or block users instead of adding them.
Having open, regular conversations with your child will help you to really understand and explore the online world together. Our tips and advice can help you start these conversations.
Talk about staying safe onlineGet emails on the latest social networks, apps and games your kids are using, so you're always up to date.
