iStockMidlothian primary pupils have been allegedly asked to send “nude photos” after being added to a WhatsApp group.
More than 80 children, aged as young as ten, were reportedly added to the group and encouraged to add as many of their peers as possible.
The figure behind the WhatsApp group warned those added, “not to let parents know.”
In an email to parents, seen by STV News, the head teacher of Paradykes Primary described the messages as “highly inappropriate” with some “referring explicitly to body parts.”
Parents have been urged to check their child’s devices immediately.
Midlothian Council conducted an investigation and confirmed the group did not affect devices issued by the local authority.
Police Scotland has been informed.
A Midlothian Council spokesperson said: “The head teacher at Paradykes Primary emailed parents today after a parent reported concerns about the online safety of children on a WhatsApp group.
“A council investigation confirmed the group was not on council devices. The head teacher has passed the matter to the police, and the council will issue guidance to all parents in Midlothian on how to keep their child safe online.
“Support is available to any Paradykes Primary School pupil upset by this incident, if required.”
A Police Scotland spokesperson said: “We are aware of reports of children from a primary school in Midlothian being added to an inappropriate group on a messaging app.
“Enquiries are at an early stage.”
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