Anonymous Question App Sendit: FTC Alleges Deception and Illegal Data Collection
Introduction to the Sendit Controversy
In September 2025, the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) filed a major complaint against the anonymous question app Sendit, alleging that it misled children, deceived users, and illegally collected sensitive data. The app, popular among teenagers, built its reputation by allowing users to send and receive anonymous questions through integrations with Instagram, Snapchat, and TikTok.
While Sendit initially gained traction as a fun, interactive platform for Gen Z, the FTC revealed troubling practices: fake anonymous messages, manipulative in-app purchases, and violations of COPPA (Children’s Online Privacy Protection Act). These allegations not only cast a shadow over Sendit but also reignited concerns about the safety of anonymous apps for minors.
So, what exactly did the FTC uncover, and what does this case mean for the future of digital privacy and anonymous platforms? Let’s break it down.
Why Anonymous Apps Appeal to Teens
Teenagers have always sought spaces for self-expression and peer validation. Anonymous apps like Sendit became popular because they offered:
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Freedom of speech without fear of judgment.
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Mystery and curiosity, fueled by anonymous interactions.
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Social media integration, making it easy to connect with friends.
However, the anonymity that attracts young users also creates opportunities for abuse, cyberbullying, and data exploitation.
Background of Sendit
Origins and Rise of Sendit
Sendit emerged as a replacement for suspended apps like YOLO and LMK, which were banned from Snapchat in 2021 after a lawsuit linked them to a teenager’s suicide. With competitors gone, Sendit quickly gained over 3.5 million downloads.
Competitors Like YOLO and LMK
Much like its predecessors, Sendit thrived on curiosity-driven interactions. Unfortunately, it also repeated many of the same mistakes, leading to serious regulatory scrutiny.
FTC Complaint Against Sendit
Allegations of Deceptive Messaging
The FTC claimed that Sendit used fake, provocative messages such as “Would you ever get with me?” or “Have you done drugs?” to manipulate users into purchasing premium features.
Hidden Membership Costs
The “Diamond Membership”, priced at $9.99, tricked users into thinking it was a one-time fee. In reality, it was a recurring weekly subscription—a deceptive practice the FTC categorized as a “dark pattern.”
COPPA Violations and Children’s Data
Perhaps the most damning accusation: Sendit knowingly collected data from over 116,000 users under the age of 13 without parental consent, a direct violation of COPPA.
How Sendit Misled Users
Fake Anonymous Messages
Instead of receiving real messages from peers, many users were fed pre-generated fake questions designed to boost engagement and purchases.
Diamond Membership Scheme
When users paid to see who sent a message, they often received false identities, eroding trust in the platform.
The Role of Dark Patterns in Apps
Definition of Dark Patterns
Dark patterns are design tricks that manipulate users into making decisions they wouldn’t normally choose—such as hidden fees, misleading buttons, or forced subscriptions.
Examples in Social Media Apps
Many apps use them, but Sendit took it further by fabricating content and monetizing deception.
Impact on Children and Parents
Risks of Early Data Collection
Children’s data, when harvested without consent, can lead to privacy breaches, identity risks, and long-term exploitation.
Effects on Mental Health
Teens exposed to fake questions and manipulative tactics may struggle with trust issues, anxiety, and low self-esteem.
Legal Framework and COPPA
What COPPA Requires
COPPA mandates that companies must notify parents and obtain consent before collecting data from children under 13.
How Sendit Violated COPPA
By ignoring over 116,000 self-reported underage users, Sendit directly broke federal law.
Responses from Sendit and Its Founder
Statements from Hunter Rice
Founder Hunter Rice dismissed early concerns as “clickbait,” insisting that Sendit was doing “great things.”
Legal Defense and Lawsuits
Sendit also sued competitor NGL, accusing it of copying its “fake anonymous message” strategy—ironically validating the FTC’s complaint.
Previous Cases of Anonymous Apps
YOLO and LMK Suspension
Both apps were removed from Snapchat in 2021 after being linked to harmful consequences for minors.
NGL Lawsuit and FTC Scrutiny
Like Sendit, NGL was forced to abandon deceptive practices after facing pressure from regulators.
Broader Issues with Anonymous Apps
Cyberbullying and Harassment Risks
Anonymity often emboldens bullies, making these apps breeding grounds for harassment.
Data Privacy Concerns
Teenagers, unaware of privacy risks, become easy targets for data exploitation.
FTC’s Stance on Child Protection Online
Past Actions by the FTC
The FTC has fined companies like TikTok and Epic Games for similar child privacy violations.
What This Case Means for Future Apps
The Sendit case signals tougher enforcement and stricter oversight for anonymous platforms moving forward.
Tech Industry’s Responsibility
Role of App Stores (Apple & Google)
Both Apple and Google face criticism for allowing apps like Sendit to remain available despite repeated complaints.
Ethical Design in Social Apps
Developers must prioritize safety over engagement, ensuring transparency in features and payments.
Parents’ Role in Protecting Kids
Monitoring Apps and Screen Time
Parental controls, app reviews, and active involvement can protect children from manipulative platforms.
Educating Children About Online Safety
Conversations about privacy, consent, and safe online behavior are crucial.
Alternatives to Anonymous Apps
Safer Messaging Platforms
Apps like Discord (with parental controls) or WhatsApp offer safer communication with more accountability.
Apps with Transparent Policies
Platforms that prioritize clear terms and parental oversight are better alternatives.
Future of Anonymous Social Apps
Stricter Regulations Ahead
Regulators worldwide are likely to impose heavier penalties on apps targeting children.
Potential for Safer Innovation
If designed ethically, anonymous apps could evolve into positive social tools rather than exploitative traps.
FAQs
1. What is Sendit?
Sendit is an anonymous question app integrated with Instagram, TikTok, and Snapchat, popular among teens.
2. Why is the FTC suing Sendit?
The FTC alleges that Sendit deceived users, misled children with fake messages, and illegally collected minors’ data.
3. What is COPPA?
The Children’s Online Privacy Protection Act (COPPA) protects kids under 13 from unauthorized data collection.
4. How did Sendit mislead users?
By creating fake questions, hiding recurring payments, and selling false “reveals” of message senders.
5. Are other anonymous apps facing scrutiny?
Yes—apps like YOLO, LMK, and NGL have all faced suspensions, lawsuits, or regulatory actions.
6. What should parents do?
Monitor app usage, set parental controls, and educate kids about online risks.
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