We are aware of a social media challenge targeting children and young adults called the Momo Challenge. It has created much concern because of its disturbing nature.
The Momo Challenge is found on WhatsApp (a free smartphone messaging application) and on Facebook. The challenge involves a frightening character making contact with a child from an unknown number or name. The child is asked to perform various tasks and provide photos as proof. The Momo apparently threatens those who do not perform the tasks.
To the best of our knowledge, reports of this scary character randomly popping up on YouTube Kids and YouTube apps are not true.
Here is a video from CNN about this challenge.
That being said, we encourage parents/guardians to reinforce internet safety with your children:
- they should not accept any invitation to play a game from an unknown number;
- they should never click on unidentified links;
- they should block unknown numbers inviting them to play;
- everyone should change email and social media passwords often.
If you have any questions or concerns, please don’t hesitate to contact your child’s principal.
Sincerely,
Tammy Mangus
Superintendent, Monticello Central School District