eSAFETY GUIDE
Kik logo

Kik

18+
Minimum age according to Kik
18+ Minimum age according to Kik

What is Kik?

Kik is a free social messaging app for mobile devices. People create an account using a username – a phone number is not required to use the app. Users can send messages, photos, videos, sketches and GIFs.

Kik includes a live stream feature, which is a major part of the app. While Kik explicitly states that nudity in live streams will result in account deletion, many streams feature sexually suggestive content. People can engage with live streamers by sending them virtual gifts using Kik’s in-app currency, called credits. Credits are purchased with real money.

Users can also browse and join public groups for different interests such as fashion, nature and astronomy. However, users should be aware that the content of these groups does not always match the group name. For example, groups labelled fashion or nature may contain users advertising sexual services. Users should be cautious when clicking links in any groups, or when sending money to other users.

There is a setting that lets users decide who can message them, such as anyone, people from shared groups, or no one.

Kik has a paid subscription option called Kik premium, which removes ads.

Website: kik.com
Apps: Android app, Apple iOS app

How do people use Kik?

Learn more about the benefits and risks associated with how people use messaging apps like Kik.

Kik is used for: anonymous communication, gaming, in-app purchasing, live streaming, location sharing, messaging/online chat, online relationships, photo/video sharing, screen capture, and video calling. 

How can you report online abuse, manage messages from new people or block someone?

These links are provided by Kik:

How can you protect your personal information?

These links are provided by Kik:

Key safety links

These links are provided by Kik:

  • For parents
    Provides a range of safety information for parents and carers about using Kik.
  • Help centre
    Offers a range of general help, safety and security information.
  • Privacy policy
    Provides information on how Kik uses and protects your personal information.
  • Terms of service
    The terms you agree to when you use Kik.
  • Community standards
    Outlines the standards of behaviour that are acceptable on Kik.

Social media changes

From 10 December 2025, certain social media platforms are not allowed to let Australian children under 16 create or keep an account.

Find out more at eSafety’s social media age restrictions hub.

About The eSafety Guide

The eSafety Guide helps you find out how to protect your personal information and report harmful content on common social media, games, apps and sites. Entries are for information only and are not reviews, endorsements or assessments against any legislative definition by eSafety. Before choosing to use any online service or platform it’s best to:

  • do your own research to understand the risks and benefits
  • check the age rating and requirements
  • consider privacy
  • check the permissions and other settings
  • check the in-app reporting options.

If you are a parent or carer who is deciding whether a child should be allowed to use an online service or platform, you can also:

  • consider your child's readiness for the types of content and experiences they might encounter
  • help them understand what to do if they need help
  • provide ongoing support and monitoring, for example through regular check-ins with your child
  • agree to some rules about use of each service or platform.

To find out more, you can read the App checklist for parents, as well as information about parental controls in social media, games and apps and mental wellbeing resources for families.