Kik Messenger Safety Guide
What parents need to know about Kik Messenger, including its anonymity features, grooming risks, and why it is not suitable for children under 16.
Official age
13+
We recommend
16+
Developer
MediaLab
Risks
3
Overview
Kik is a messaging app that allows users to register with just an email address — no phone number is required. This anonymity makes it popular with people who want to communicate without revealing their identity. It also makes it a well-documented tool for grooming and exploitation, as predators can create accounts with no verifiable information.
How children use it
Children use Kik to message friends outside of their parents' sight, as messages do not appear on phone bills. They may join public groups by interest or be invited by strangers. The lack of phone number requirement appeals to younger users who do not have a mobile number.
Main risks
Recommended privacy settings
New People
Location: Settings > Your Account > New People
Set to: Off
Prevents strangers from finding your child's account. When enabled, anyone can search for and message your child.
Block List
Location: Settings > Privacy > Block List
Set to: Block any unknown contacts immediately
Blocked users cannot send messages. However, new anonymous accounts can always be created.
Parent actions
Discuss why anonymous messaging apps carry elevated grooming risks
Time: 10 minutes
Check whether Kik is installed on your child's device
Time: 5 minutes
If your child uses Kik, disable new people discovery and review their contacts
Time: 10 minutes