According to reports, in order to initiate a challenge, users have to get in touch with ‘Momo’ through Whatsapp. They then receive violent and disturbing images over the messaging platform, along with tasks. It is possible that the users are ‘doxxed’ i.e, they are threatened that their personal information will be published online. These threats could then be used to ensure that the ‘challengers’ comply.
The most prominent image in the Momo Challenge is of a grotesque looking face of a women. However, that sculpture, or its creator have nothing to do with the challenge itself. The sculpture is called Mother-Bird and was displayed at a gallery called the Vanilla Gallery. It was created by a Japanese special effects company called the Link factory
The Momo Challenge as well as the Blue Whale challenge are serving as stark reminders of the dangers that the internet can posses. It is also a notice to parents to keep track of the activities that their children, especially pre-teens in order to ensure their safety from malicious individuals online.