Momo Challenge targeting kids to cause self-harm surfaces again in YouTube videos

Momo challenge.[/caption]YouTube videos of popular kid shows such as Peppa Pig have suddenly started showing the 'Momo Challenge' character girl popping up in the middle of the episodes, as per a report by Manchester Evening News. This comes after YouTube was pulled up for putting violent and disturbing content as suggestions for YouTube Kids.The character, which is a Japanese doll figure with bulging eyes and a creepy grin, encourages children to harm themselves and do dangerous tasks which could culminate in suicide. The doll will ask the intended target to contact an anonymous person on a WhatsApp number, after which this person shares violent images and dares. Peer pressure or social exclusion have been touted as possible reasons that children might even consider doing this challenge, as per a report by fact-checking website Snopes.Social media challenges are nothing new. From the less dangerous Kiki challenge or ALS Ice bucket challenge to challenges like immolating oneself, the internet has been brimming with challenges for some time now. The 'Momo Challenge' is quite reminiscent of the Blue Whale Challenge which also had the same modus operandi.

• Secretive online activities
• Spending an unusually high amount of time on social media
• Hiding the screen when you come into view
• Start feeling withdrawn or angry after using the internet
• Having multiple phone numbers or email IDs