Pupils are sent explicit images

Saddleworth School

YOUNG Saddleworth School pupils have received explicit images from strangers on the social networking app ooVoo.

The school has reported the incidents to police and warned parents to delete the app from their child’s phones, tablets and computers.

The free app allows people to video call with up to 12 friends on any device, and send text, pictures and video messages.

On the school’s website, assistant head teacher Michael Anderson says: “Several pupils have reported they have been contacted by adults they do not know and have received inappropriate messages and explicit images.

“Some have also reported that these adults have attempted to video call them directly through the site app. We are in contact with the police, who are investigating.

“I advise you to delete the app from your child’s electronic devices and speak to them about the safe use of social media. If it comes to your attention that your child has received any inappropriate messages, images or calls, please contact the police directly.”

Mr Anderson confirmed the school had spoken to two pupils who had been affected, but was aware that others also used the app. No complaint has been made to ooVoo, but he added: “We have notified the local authority so they can tell other schools that there is an issue.”

A spokesman for Greater Manchester Police confirmed it has received reports of incidents involving year seven pupils aged 11 and 12.

She said that following inquires, no crime was being investigated as the photos had been deleted. But an officer will visit the school to talk about online safety.

A spokesman for ooVoo said: “We have a strict, explicitly-stated policy that any user must be aged 13 and older. This is an issue for the social network industry as a whole. We are a closed network and we explicitly recommend that users only accept friend requests from friends, family and people they know and trust, as they would away from the internet. We take security and privacy issues very seriously and root out and delete suspicious accounts.

“In cases where reported behaviours are offensive or illegal, those users are immediately reported to the proper authorities.”