Tumblr is a micro-blogging and social networking platform that allows users to post content to a short-form blog. Users can follow other blogs and share (or re-share) content. Posts from all followed blogs show up on a feed, alongside recommended content.
Core Functions
- Tumblr posts are divided up by type: Text, Photo, Quote, Link, Chat, Audio, and Video.
- Follow a Tumblr blog to keep up to date with posted content.
- Submit anonymous messages through the ‘ask’ section.
- Send and receive direct messages.
- Post blogs onto multiple social media accounts such as Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram.
Age Restrictions
The minimum age to open an account on Tumblr is 13, but users can use a fake date of birth to bypass this requirement.
Risks
- All Tumblr accounts are public. There is no setting to make them private.
- All content on Tumblr is user generated, so some of it can be explicit or inappropriate.
- Tumblr’s ‘Ask’ feature provides a level of anonymity that may provide an opportunity for cyber-bullying on Tumblr.
- Tumblr does not employ moderators, so inappropriate or explicit content can only be removed if it is reported by another user.
Safety Settings
- Tumblr Safe Mode will filter or hide any sensitive or inappropriate content. This content is not removed from the feed, but is hidden and users can choose to view if they want.
- Users can turn off the anonymous messaging feature for their posts, but it’s important to remember that cyberbullies can also hide behind usernames.
Top Tips
- If a young person ever sees something on Tumblr that makes them scared or nervous, encourage them to talk to a trusted adult.
- Always remember that all Tumblr posts are public, and can be seen by anyone.
Reporting on Tumblr
Users can report abusive and inappropriate behaviour to Tumblr. They can also block other users. However, administrators aren’t reviewing content or monitoring what is going on unless someone reports something as inappropriate. Visit the Safety Centre via the button below to learn how to block on the site.