We have received information from safeguarding colleagues in Bury and Oldham about some concerning WhatsApp groups which are currently active. If your child has access to WhatsApp through a phone please be vigilant about checking the groups and chats that they are members of and put in the necessary restrictions to keep them safe. The original message is copied below …

I have been made aware of an app and a WhatsApp chat which demonstrate a considerable risk to young children:

1.       ‘Cam go.’ ‘Cam go’ does not require a sign up and it can be accessed from Google. It is an app that puts you in touch with random strangers. As well as sharing video and photograph, there is a chat facility. This is also known as ‘Chantingly.’ A parent from the borough uncovered a message from a random adult male telling one of their daughters she had nice hair. The children in the Oldham area have been exposed to naked men and women performing sexual acts in front of the camera, and they have been encouraged to undress, etc.

2.           The 800 Club. The aim of this chat is to reach 800 members. It currently stands at around 600. Within this group unknown members have shared far right imagery such as the swastika, nude imagery in the form of gifs, inappropriate and offensive language and children are being asked to divulge personal details, such as their age.

If you are concerned or would like further advice please contact school.