Zift Advisory
The ICQ app is a messenger app that can be used for instant messaging, calling and video chatting. This app is available for download in both the App Store and the Google Play Store. It is rated for users of all ages and does not feature any in-app purchases or advertisements. The ICQ app is not safe for kids.
What is ICQ: Messenger & Video Calling?
The ICQ app is a messenger app that can be used for instant messaging, calling and video chatting. User can make free international calling, send animated stickers, and group chat with friends.
This app is available for download in both the App Store and the Google Play Store. It is rated for users of all ages and does not feature any in-app purchases or advertisements.
ICQ was the first program modern users would recognize as a chat client, with usernames and the ability to chat one-on-one with other users.
Users can join or operate channels, which are like a standing group chat or virtual conference call. Channels tend to organize around affiliate groups or shared interests, and can be either public or invite-only.
ICQ features:
• Securely encrypted calls
• High-quality video calls
• Speech-to-text for voice messages
• Ability to create your own stickers
• Animated 3D masks and video calls
• Live chats with unlimited participants and channels
• Chat synchronization across all devices
When users first download this app they can create an account by logging in with a phone number or an email address. ICQ will ask to access your contacts and further information to create your account. The app interface is fairly simple in that in features tabs for calls, channels to join chats, your own chats, and settings.
Is ICQ: Messenger & Video Calling safe for my kids?
The ICQ app is not safe for kids. It facilitates semi-anonymous communication with strangers, the discovery and sharing of inappropriate content, and has been known for its cyberbullies and internet trolls.
This app isn’t extremely different from other messaging apps such as Snapchatand WhatsApp, but the problem arises when kids are able to chat with strangers through the channels features. Getting in contact with strangers here could lead to your child encountering internet predators and parents should discuss with their children the importance of internet safety and not disclosing personal information.
There is no content moderation or filtering on most of ICQ by default. ICQ asks users to confirm their date of birth in order to appropriately filter content, there is no age verification. Even if your child is limited in who they are allowed to contact, no one is more than a keyword or channel search away from seeing explicitly mature content on ICQ.
Parents should keep their kids away from this app and find a more age appropriate app for messaging and group chatting.
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