The Hanover School Division has released a statement concerning a social media trend called the Momo Challenge that urges children to self-harm.

“Momo” is the name given to a disturbing photo of a woman with dark hair, sunken eyes, pale skin, and an eerie smile that splits across her face. The challenge purports that she is the one sending the vile texts.

Superintendent Randy Dueck warns that children may receive anonymous messages from Momo inviting them to participate in dangerous activities that could lead to bodily injury. The challenge also threatens violence to those who do not cooperate with the abhorrent dares.

The challenge can be initiated through a variety of social platforms including YouTube, Whatsapp, Facebook and potentially others as well.

According to Dueck, no children throughout Hanover have yet reported encountering this challenge.

“If your child does receive a Momo message, remind them that the image of Momo isn’t a real person,” wrote Dueck in a letter sent out to all parents across the division. “Assist or instruct your child to delete the message, and block the sender.”

The Momo Challenge has already been covered extensively by news media across North America and many have already come to the conclusion that the challenge has been blown out of proportion or was simply a hoax meant to stir up fear.

Whether or not the Momo Challenge will directly impact kids within the division, Dueck feels that its potential threat still brings up a good reminder.

“I suggest that all parents and guardians take this opportunity to have conversations with their children about the risks associated with engaging in online challenges,” offers Dueck, who encourages parents to review the privacy apps on their children’s devices in order to minimize their chance of receiving harmful messages.

Dueck adds that caregivers should not hesitate to report harmful texts to local RCMP. “Together, we can teach our children how to be good digital citizens and stay safe on the Internet."