A Message From The Principal
Dear Families,
It has been brought to our attention that there is a recent online threat that embeds inappropriate content into YouTube videos prompting children to harm themselves. These videos are currently being masked in various popular YouTube programs, such as Peppa Pig, Fortnite, Momo Challenge and others. A frightening image of a face appears (see below) and then the threat follows in the middle of the harmless, children-oriented YouTube program.
It is important for you to note that the nature of these videos are such that they warn the child viewer to not tell their parents about the content while also lurking the viewer to text a number when various tasks have been completed. The WhatsApp (application available for download in iTunes) can also be used as a communication tool.
The purpose of this communication is to make you aware of this scam and increase awareness of what your children are doing and viewing online. We are currently monitoring the situation at St. Matthew, especially in regard to student iPad use and in technology class. Please know that should concerns arise, we will consider increasing our safety measures. We are asking for your help at home to partner with us in protecting our students. A few notes:
-- Amy Conlon
It has been brought to our attention that there is a recent online threat that embeds inappropriate content into YouTube videos prompting children to harm themselves. These videos are currently being masked in various popular YouTube programs, such as Peppa Pig, Fortnite, Momo Challenge and others. A frightening image of a face appears (see below) and then the threat follows in the middle of the harmless, children-oriented YouTube program.
It is important for you to note that the nature of these videos are such that they warn the child viewer to not tell their parents about the content while also lurking the viewer to text a number when various tasks have been completed. The WhatsApp (application available for download in iTunes) can also be used as a communication tool.
The purpose of this communication is to make you aware of this scam and increase awareness of what your children are doing and viewing online. We are currently monitoring the situation at St. Matthew, especially in regard to student iPad use and in technology class. Please know that should concerns arise, we will consider increasing our safety measures. We are asking for your help at home to partner with us in protecting our students. A few notes:
- Continually monitor social media
- Watch for text messages to strange numbers
- Monitor the apps downloaded; look out for the WhatsApp
- Set parental controls and restrictions, especially YouTube, to restrict accessing user generated content that may include Momo themed add ons.
- Keep video games and YouTube watching to controlled family spaces
- Have internet safety conversations with your child(ren)
- Please keep lines of communication open and help us be the eyes and ears to combat this harmful threat
-- Amy Conlon
