What is the Stars Messaging App?
Stars is a private messaging platform designed specifically for children and families. It offers a safe environment for communication without requiring a phone number or access to a device's address book. The app, rated PEGI 3, allows users to send messages, photos, videos, and voice recordings and engage in video chats within small private groups.
Explore the app in detail here.
Safety Features
Stars emphasizes safety through several key features:
Friend Code System: Users need both a username and a unique Friend Code to connect, ensuring only trusted individuals can make contact.
No Searchability: Unlike many messaging apps, Stars doesn't allow users to search for others by name or username.
Private by Default: Profiles are kept private without requiring manual adjustments.
No Phone Number Required: The app doesn't need a phone number or SIM card to function.
Parental Controls
Stars offers an optional "Parent View" feature, allowing parents to:
Monitor their child's interactions
View friends and groups
Receive notifications about activity
See messages and media sent/received by their child.
Managing Connections
Adding Friends: Requires both username and Friend Code.
Resetting Friend Code: Users can reset their code anytime to prevent unwanted contacts.
Group Management: Joining groups requires a group code and number, or an invite link from the admin.
Safety Considerations
While Stars offers various safety features, users should still be cautious:
Messages, videos, and voice notes can be sent at any time
Currently, there don't appear to be content filters for inappropriate material.
Shared content can be forwarded or saved by other users.
Using Stars Safely
To enhance safety when using Stars:
Use nicknames or first names for accounts instead of full names.
Reset Friend Codes regularly, especially after adding new contacts.
Utilize the 'Parent View' feature for monitoring.
Report harmful messages by holding down the message and selecting the type of harm.
Educate young users about online safety and protecting personal information.
As with any social media platform, it's crucial to consider whether Stars is appropriate for individual users and to stay informed about online safety practices.
At Big Sister, we advocate for children's safety online. Our app marks a positive change in the way that our children are protected online, using flags and alerts to warn parents of dangerous content without breaking down trust and privacy barriers between children and adults.
Find out more about how to protect your children online without breaking their trust in our latest blog here.
Or sign up to our waitlist to be the first to know when the app launches and get access to our early bird discount.