Momo Challenge Game: New Blue Whale game or cyber theft?

The Momo Challenge has taken over internet in the past few days. It has raised concerns and eyebrows among social media experts. It is believed to be a suicide inducing game challenge just like the Blue Whale Challenge that made headlines in 2016. Young internet users and their parents are being asked to be careful against falling into the trap.

Momo challenge:

Being spread on Facebook-owned Whatsapp, Momo is a social media account on Whatsapp, Facebook and Youtube. The creepy account is reported to be connected to three numbers in Japan, Mexico, and Colombia.

Those targeted receive a message challenging them to text Momo. Once they have done that, they start receiving spooky images.

What is it?

Reports across the globe have cited a sculpture being forwarded with challenging instructions to display extreme behaviour in daily life. The sculpture or the image is a horror artwork called ‘Mother Bird’. It has reportedly being created by a Japanese artist Midori Hayashi. The sculpture is on display in Tokyo’s Vanilla Gallery and is said to have no relevance with the game.

Where did it start?

The origin of the game is yet to be discovered. United States, France, Germany, Argentina and Mexico are some of the countries where cases related to the Momo challenge have been reported. However, the intent of the game is yet to be identified. Cyber experts have taken cognizance of the game. According to some, it is a hoax targeted at extracting sensitive information.

Deaths reported due to this challenge

In a latest instance, death of a 12-year old girl in Argentina is reportedly being linked to the challenge. Police in Argentina is on a look out for the “adolescent with whom she exchanged those messages”.

What parents can do?

Parents are advised to keep a watch on their youngster’s social media activities and save them from falling prey to the game. Individuals need to be vigilant and careful about what they share on their social media accounts.