The Four Apps Most Linked to Child Harm, Experts Warn

The Four Apps Most Linked to Child Harm, Experts Warn

Over 24,000 child exploitation reports were tied to Roblox last year, Snapchat has been linked to a surge in teen fentanyl overdoses, and Discord banned over 530,000 accounts for child exploitation in a single quarter.

Matt Dolman from Lawsuit Legal News noted: “These dangers aren’t abstract. We’re seeing predators exploit platform features, harmful content delivered by design, and widespread failures in moderation. Parents must understand these risks and take proactive steps; default safety tools are not enough.”

Here are four apps most often linked to child harm, and the protective steps parents can take according to the expert:

1. Roblox – Grooming Through Games

Children as young as 9 can be exposed to sexual content, predatory chat, and manipulation through in-game currency. Predators frequently use “free Robux” schemes and private messages to groom children. In 2024, Roblox filed over 24,000 child exploitation reports with NCMEC, and the Louisiana AG called the platform “the perfect place for pedophiles.”

Protective Actions:

• Restrict chat to pre-approved friends
• Monitor playtime and in-game purchases
• Use parental controls to block mature content

2. Snapchat — Disappearing Messages, Lasting Damage

Snapchat’s disappearing messages and Snap Map give predators and drug dealers direct access to teens. NBC News reported a rise in fentanyl dealers using the app to reach minors, fueling overdoses nationwide. The platform also faces lawsuits, including an AG action in New Mexico.

Also Read – The Best Sleep Position to Protect Against Memory Decline: Brain Health Expert Opinion

Protective Actions:

• Disable Snap Map and location sharing
• Limit messaging to friends only
• Remind kids screenshots make “disappearing” content permanent

3. Instagram — Algorithms Feeding Harmful Content

Instagram’s endless scroll and algorithmic feeds push teens toward eating disorder promotion, self-harm, and explicit material. A Bark report ranked Instagram among the top platforms for harmful content exposure, while 1,700+ addiction lawsuits highlight the legal fallout over design features that keep kids scrolling.

Protective Actions:

• Keep profiles private with manual follower approval
• Disable Explore/Reels recommendations
• Enforce daily screen-time limits

4. Discord – Predators in Unmoderated Spaces

Discord’s open servers and private chats make it easy for kids to encounter predators. Bark’s 2022 report found Discord among the top five platforms for bullying, suicidal ideation, and body-image issues. In 2025, New Jersey sued after over 530,000 accounts were banned in one quarter for child exploitation.

Protective Actions:

• Max privacy settings
• Limit servers to verified, moderated groups
• Review friends list and memberships regularly