Report by Paula Antolini, February 27, 2019, 6:04PM EDT
A new internet game called Momo is challenging users to commit suicide.
The latest trend on social media is this dangerous and viral game, the “Momo Challenge” on WhatsApp that could have could have kids harming themselves,” states WPTV News | West Palm Beach Florida.
According to Fox News, “Momo started on Facebook and is now circulating on WhatApp, and involves members who are challenged to communicate with an unknown member. … A game where the controller urges youngsters to harm themselves after sending them violent images via the messaging app. If they do not comply they are apparently threatened. … The Momo game has been reported in Mexico, Argentina, the United Staes, France, and Germany. … People are urged to add a contact on the app, then it is suggested they cause self-harm, or to even die by suicide. … Police in Argentina are connecting the game to the recent death of a 12-year-old girl who committed suicide. … The disturbing Avatar (shown above) was created by a Japanese artist with no connection to the game.”
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Message from Bethel Public Schools:
Attention Parents: Please be aware of the Momo Challenge which your children, even at the upper elementary level, have been accessing in WhatsApp, social media sites, and/or Youtube.
This newsclip describes the challenge and the dangers to children, including harm to oneself and/or others.
We are concerned that the children are told not to tell an adult that they are taking the challenge. This the opposite message that we tell our children in school. They are encouraged to tell a trusted adult.
We would encourage you to watch the news segment, speak to your child about the dangers of the challenge and monitor their personal technology (our webfiltering makes access through school very difficult).
BPS posted this video from WPTV5:
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