GroupMe
Low riskRated Low · How we rate
A straightforward group messaging app that works well for coordinating friends, family, and teams without unusual privacy risks.
| Minimum age | 13 |
|---|---|
| Strangers can contact | Yes |
| Location sharing | No |
| Disappearing messages | |
| Parental visibility | Limited |
GroupMe is a free group-messaging app owned by Microsoft/Skype that lets you add contacts by phone number or email and chat in groups or one-on-one. It supports rich media (GIFs, photos, videos, emoji), works across mobile and desktop, and falls back to SMS if someone doesn't have the app installed. Messages are saved in a shared gallery.
GroupMe offers notification controls: you can mute individual group chats or silence the entire app. You can also leave or end group chats at any time. Check privacy settings at groupme.com/privacy to understand data handling. For younger users, ensure they only join groups you've approved and know the other members.
Other apps to know about
Among Us
Low riskFun multiplayer game with mild social pressure; mostly safe, but watch for toxic chat in random lobbies.
Minecraft
Low riskCreative sandbox with multiplayer; monitor server interactions and in-app purchases for younger players.
Steam Mobile
Low riskJust the companion app for a Steam account — low risk by itself; what matters is the gaming account's friends and chat, not this app.
AlexTV: Kids YouTube Control
Low riskParental-control wrapper around YouTube that curates content by channel approval and blocks shorts and ads.
BeReal
Low riskA low-risk, authenticity-focused app — the least concerning social platform your teen is probably using.
Fridge: Habits with Friends
Low riskThoughtful social habit tracker; low risk if friend-locked, moderate risk if open to strangers.
Spot something wrong? Submit a correction →