What is MeWe?
MeWe’s description from the Apple App Store:
MeWe is the uplifting next-gen social network with awesome social features and No BS. No Ads, No Targeting, No Newsfeed manipulation.
App Category: Social Networking
Corporate website: MeWe
APP Store rating:Â
What do parents need to know about MeWe?
Is MeWe safe for kids? No. The 17+ rating in Apple’s App Store is the right spot. While the app requires a minimum age of 16, it has no verification process to determine if the user is under 18 (or under 16 for that matter). This means that the adult content found in the app is available to any user. With optional disappearing messages and other privacy protections, MeWe is a platform that could be used for predatory activity (if large numbers of kids ever started using it).
It does give this warning in its policy statement:
But — and this is important — you should understand that users who see your messages can always save them, either by taking a screenshot or by using some other image-capture technology (whether that be software or even something as old-fashioned as a camera to take a photo of your device’s screen). The same common sense that applies to the Internet at large applies to MeWe as well: Don’t send messages that you wouldn’t want someone to save or share.
MeWe has a clear Privacy Bill of Rights. For many, this list will be a refreshing change from the targeted third-party advertisements and content found in other social media platforms, such as Facebook. Users can opt out of the member directory, restrict the downloading of photos from personal timelines or private posts, and limit chat requests to only your contacts.
MeWe offers a variety of groups for users to join. Whether Alternative Energy, Dating, Extreme Sports or Self-Directed Learning, users can either join or create groups within MeWe’s 100+ topics. Some groups are open to join, while others require an application. We tried finding edgier content, just to see what was available, and content moderation is pretty strong.
Remember, MeWe is rated 17+. It expects to be used by adults. Therefore, no one should be surprised that it allows adults to talk about adult topics.
The bottom line: Is MeWe safe for your kids?
No. The rating of 17+ is accurate. If you are tired of your information being monitored and sold, MeWe might be a nice change from “the ordinary” for parents. Many of the topics are completely tame and appropriate.
Now what? Have you heard of Bark?
Are you interested in having greater insight into the social media platforms that your kids are using? Bark is one of the best platforms we’ve tested. If your kid is using social media, then they need Bark. We trust them and we think you should, too!
What if I have more questions? How can I stay up to date?
Two actions you can take!
- Subscribe to our tech trends newsletter, the PYE Download. About every 3 weeks, we’ll share what’s new, what the PYE team is up to, and a message from Chris.
- Ask your questions in our private parent community called The Table! It’s not another Facebook group. No ads, no algorithms, no asterisks. Just honest, critical conversations and deep learning! For parents who want to “go slow” together. Become a member today!
*There might be affiliate links throughout this post because we’ve tested and trust a small list of parental control solutions. Our work saves you time! If you decide that you agree with us, then we may earn a small commission, which does nothing to your price. Enjoy!