Bug in Facebook’s Messenger Kids
Facebook’s recent decisions have alarmed some people, but this time the consequences may be more serious. Some children are at risk due to their use of the app.
Facebook notified parents of children using the Messenger Kids app about a “technical bug”. The bug allowed children to take part in group chats with unauthorized contacts. This security lapse affected saved conversations and recently sent chat messages.
In its notice to the parents of the children we read: “We found a technical error that allowed [CHILD]’s friend [FRIEND] to create a group chat with [FRIEND]’s parent-approved friends. We want you to know that we’ve turned off this group chat and are making sure that group chats like this won’t be allowed in the future. If you have questions about Messenger Kids and online safety, please visit our Help Center and Messenger Kids parental controls. We’d also appreciate your feedback.”
Facebook has confirmed the authenticity of a notice from The Verge. The company has sent it to thousands of Messenger Kids users in recent days. The Facebook version for children allows for parents to have peace of mind. The app reassured them that their kids are chatting with family members on the app. The child can’t see chats or posts from friends or other family members unless their parent has added them to their Facebook permissions list. This particular bug seems to be a result of the company’s system for 3rd party app permissions. Here is an example on how a group chat works. Christos started a group chat with his classmates, Niki and Kostas, but George, Christos’ pre-approved contact, cannot also take part in the group chat. Don’t forget that your parents need to know what you are doing online.
At this time, we do not know how long the bug has been in existence or whether children were exposed to danger. The issue is very serious and appears to have violated the COPPA laws regarding the app and children under 13. In the past, Facebook has faced a lot of criticism because they are allegedly monitoring their users and sharing content with other corporations without consent. The FTC has begun enforcement proceedings against the company due to this bug.
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Author: PC-GR
The World of Technology
