What is the Kik app and how did it become so popular? | News On 6 explains

Launched in 2010, Kik has gained immense popularity among teens for its anonymity and ease of use, allowing users to communicate without sharing phone numbers. However, this very feature raises critical safety concerns that parents should consider.

Thursday, August 21st 2025, 4:43 pm

By: David Prock

TULSA, Okla. -

Kik is a free mobile messaging app that allows users to send text messages, photos, videos, and other content over the internet.

Kik launched in 2010 and has built a large following, particularly among teenagers and young adults. One reason for its popularity is that it only requires an email address to sign up and not a phone number, like other messaging platforms.

How Kik Works

The app functions much like other messaging services. Users can chat one-on-one or in groups, share photos, GIFs, memes, and videos. Users can also connect with bots that provide games, quizzes, or shopping services.

Kik is available on both iOS and Android devices, with messages being transmitted over Wi-Fi or data, rather than SMS.

Why is Kik Popular

Kik is very easy to use, and because it doesn’t require a phone number, users can register with little personal information, making it easier to maintain privacy compared to apps like WhatsApp or iMessage.

Concerns About Safety on Kik

The same anonymity that makes Kik popular has also raised serious safety concerns. Law enforcement and child-safety groups warn that predators have used the platform to contact minors. Kik has appeared in multiple criminal investigations involving online exploitation.

The company works with law enforcement and encourages users to report inappropriate content, but parents and law enforcement advise close supervision if minors are using the app.

What Parents Should Know About the Kik App

Experts recommend that parents talk with their children about safe online behavior if they use Kik or any similar app. While Kik is legal and widely used, its unmonitored nature means inappropriate content can spread quickly.

Bottom Line

Kik is a messaging app that offers anonymity, ease of use, and a wide range of chat options. But those same features can make it risky, particularly for younger users.