FTC Shuts Down Teen 'Ask Me Anything' App Over Deception Concerns
FTC bans NGL app after exposing teens to cyberbullying, deceptive practices and mental health risks, setting a new precedent for youth app regulations.
In a stunning move that sets a precedent for regulating youth-targeted apps, the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) has banned the controversial “ask me anything” app, NGL, from offering its services to users under 18. This bold decision seeks to protect vulnerable teens from bullying, harassment, and deceitful practices orchestrated by the app’s smart algorithms.
A Web of Deception
The FTC’s order reveals a troubling pattern of behavior by NGL co-founders Raj Vir and Joao Figueiredo. According to the agency, NGL tricked users with computer-generated messages pretending to be anonymous confessions from friends, nudging teens to purchase a costly premium service with the false promise of unveiling message senders. According to Mashable, such actions reflect a blatant disregard for user safety.
Unmasking a Digital Threat
At its peak, NGL ranked as the most downloaded app in the Apple Store, captivating millions of teens eager to express themselves anonymously. However, the allure quickly transformed into a digital menace as the app’s AI moderation failed to prevent cyberbullying. The FTC found NGL executives mocking customer complaints, highlighting the cynicism fueling this business model.
Settlement and Reformation
Facing a compelling case backed by the FTC and the Los Angeles District Attorney’s Office, NGL has agreed to a $5 million settlement fee. Although claiming inaccuracies in the factual age demographic allegations, NGL has committed to implementing age-gating and filtering measures to prevent misuse.
Empowering Digital Citizenship
Policy advocates like Haley Hinkle of Fairplay praise the FTC’s decision as a critical step in holding Big Tech accountable. This verdict sends a clear message: children’s digital safety cannot be compromised for profit. Moving forward, NGL and similar platforms are urged to prioritize ethical digital engagement, establishing enhanced regulatory benchmarks.
The Future of Anonymous Interactions
The NGL controversy serves as a reminder of the delicate balance apps must strike between engaging young audiences and maintaining ethical security standards. As the app integrates new parent-friendly features, it signals a transitional phase for anonymous social platforms. The hopes are to instill an era where online vulnerability equates only to authentic self-expression, not predatory exploitation.
