What is the NGL App?
NGL stands for “not gonna lie.” Here’s the description for how it works straight from the Apple App Store:
- Share your ngl link anywhere
- Friends answer right on your story
- Get responses on NGL
To ensure the safety of our users we use world class AI content moderation. We utilize deep learning and rule-based character pattern-matching algorithms to filter out harmful language and bullying. Ultimately we believe that anonymity only works when it’s safe! (PYE – please keep reading, because the AI is failing)
App Category: Lifestyle
Corporate website: NGL – ask fun
APP Store rating:Â
What do parents need to know about NGL?
NGL allows anonymous feedback. End of story. No app that allows anonymous feedback is healthy for teens. Now, there are some teens who might benefit from sharing about their own lives anonymously in a forum due to some struggle or embarrassment (i.e., confessing a porn addiction and looking for guidance – we receive these). But, that’s different than social-media-driven requests for others to tell me anonymous things without repercussions.
NGL is exploding on Instagram because Snapchat now disallows anonymous sharing apps, after being sued for the death of teens attribute to bullying (article). We’ve called on Mr. Mosseri and Instagram to follow suit quickly.
NGL’s moderation AI isn’t working well enough according to testing by NBC News.
We shared the following video on Instagram and Facebook, describing how NGL works:
The bottom line: Is NGL safe for your kids?
Anonymous feedback is always a dumpster fire. There’s a path littered with apps like: YOLO Anonymous Feedback, Saraha, Wink, Profoundly…..all horrible for teens. No one wins when there’s no accountability for your actions (whether you’re 14 or 40).
- Talk to your kids about your expectations about what types of apps are allowable.
- If you want to allow kids to pick apps but with permission – Set up Family Sharing (iPhone) or Family Link (Android).
- If you want to prevent access to app stores altogether – Turn off the App Store in Screen Time (iPhone) or use an App Lock (Android).
Ready to monitor social media? Then it’s time for Bark.
Because the app is brand new, no one monitors it yet. But, Bark can send an alert when new apps are downloaded. Plus, they cover plenty of other apps that kids love, including texts, chat, email, YouTube, and 25+ social media platforms for signs of cyberbullying, suicidal ideation, adult content, and more.
Parents and guardians don’t have to read every message — instead, they’ll get alerts only when there’s a potential issue. Sign up today for a free, one-week trial!
*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!Â
