Is the IMVU App Safe for Kids?

It seems like there’s a new social media app to worry about on a weekly basis. If that gets overwhelming, we’ve got you covered.

Today we’re looking at the IMVU app, which stands out as a unique platform that merges social interaction with a virtual universe. 

Read on to learn more about the app, how it works, and what to watch out for.

What is IMVU App For?

The term “IMVU” stands for “in my virtual universe.” IMVU is an avatar based social network that allows users to create 3D avatars to interact with one another within a virtual world. It’s a little bit like Roblox, but instead of building games and worlds, users build virtual chat rooms. 

Users customize their design avatars with clothing and accessory options that reflect their style. Users can also set preferences on who they’d like to interact with and enter chat rooms based on interests.

Users who join the app can then private message other users, enter small chat rooms, or move into large live rooms. 

Why is IMVU So Popular?

The allure of IMVU lies in its ability to create a vibrant social media experience within a simulated reality. The app is interactive and immersive, offering users the freedom to explore a variety of rooms and chat with hundreds of people.

For some, the app’s chat rooms and live interactions foster a sense of community, making it an attractive option for those intrigued by digital socialization. 

How Old Do You Have to Be to Play IMVU?

Although the app claims to be primarily designed for kids the ages of 13 and above, this age range is inaccurate. The app is rated 17+ on the app store for mild profanity, crude humor, suggestive and mature sexual content, violence and horror, and depiction of drugs. 

Is IMVU Appropriate for Kids?

No, IMVU is not appropriate for kids. The game offers interactions one-on-one with total strangers in an anonymous setting. 

It also allows users to date one another and pairs them up to chat with each other according to age. This is incredibly dangerous and problematic because there is no age verification. If a 35-year-old man wanted to connect romantically with a 13-year-old girl, the app could lead him right to her. If you’ve read our previous articles on spotting signs of grooming and protecting kids from online predators then you’ll know that IMVU is trouble waiting to happen.

Every female avatar in the game is overly and unrealistically generated to be sexualized to the max. The clothing options are also revealing and sexual. 

The live rooms that any user can enter are also incredibly sexually explicit. The app’s terms of service prohibit sexual behavior, yet avatars can make sexually explicit “poses” that users do together in live rooms. 

Like any other social media app, kids are also susceptible to too much screen time while they interact with a revolving door of users and experiences.

This app also doesn’t allow for any parental controls, so trying to get around these dangerous features is nearly impossible. 

Does the Game IMVU Cost Money?

IMVU is free to download and use, with many of its features accessible without cost. However, the app also includes premium options that require real money. Users can purchase avatar clothing, accessories, and other in-world items. So the potential exists for kids to rack up significant charges within the app.

Kids and Social Media

Helping kids safely navigate social media can be a harrowing experience. The world moves fast, and trying to stay on top of every new app can feel impossible. It’s important that parents talk to their kids about social media often, and assess the risks together.

Restricting access to social media apps while increasing connection to real life friends and family is a great way to ensure that kids are properly socialized while staying safe. Kid-safe devices that limit the download of dangerous social media apps are great options to make sure that kids are connected without being endangered. 

What do you think? What have been your experiences with IMVU? What should other parents watch out for when it comes to new social media apps? Let us know below!

Author Morgan Dye

Morgan is a Gabb staff writer. She joined Gabb because she is dedicated to keeping children safe online. She loves watercolor and is an accomplished actress who can be found acting in her local theater productions.