In a significant move to enhance online safety for minors, the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) has taken unprecedented action against the anonymous messaging app, NGL: ask me anything. Launched in 2021, NGL allowed users to receive anonymous messages from friends and followers, but its marketing practices and safety measures have come under scrutiny.
The FTC, in collaboration with the Los Angeles District Attorney, has prohibited NGL from hosting users under the age of 18. This decision stems from serious allegations that the app not only targeted minors but also failed to protect them from potential cyberbullying and harassment.
The Allegations Against NGL
NGL, which stands for “not gonna lie,” was marketed as a “safe space for teens.” However, the FTC’s investigation revealed several troubling practices:
- Despite knowledge of the dangers associated with similar platforms, NGL actively marketed its services to children.
- The company falsely claimed that its AI content moderation effectively filtered out harmful messages, while tests showed that many bullying terms went unchecked.
- NGL allegedly generated fake messages to create buzz around the app, misleading users about its popularity.
- Users were misled into subscribing to NGL Pro, which promised to reveal the identities of anonymous senders but only provided vague hints, often without clear consent regarding recurring charges.
- The app failed to obtain verifiable parental consent for data collection from users under 13, violating the Children’s Online Privacy Protection Act (COPPA).
Consequences and Future Implications
As a result of these findings, NGL has been ordered to pay a million settlement, which includes customer redress and civil penalties. The FTC’s chair, Lina Khan, emphasized the importance of safeguarding children in the digital space, stating that the agency will continue to pursue businesses that exploit minors for profit.
Moving forward, NGL is required to reform its practices significantly. This includes eliminating any misleading representations about its services, ensuring informed consent for subscription charges, and implementing robust age verification measures to prevent underage access to the app.
As parents navigate the digital landscape, it is crucial to engage with the apps their children use. Testing apps personally and reviewing user feedback can provide valuable insights into their safety and suitability for young users.
