Snapchat has issued a list of rules aimed at underage users via their website. Users of the mobile photo-sharing app are warned: "Don’t use Snapchat for any illegal shenanigans and if you’re under 18 or are Snapping with someone who might be: keep your clothes on!" According to the Daily Mail, the manual was released in a bid to ally the fears of concerned parents who fear their children may be using the app for "sexting". It also includes a list of things forbidden by the site including pornography, nudity for those under 18, threats, impersonation and self-harm. Although Snapchat is a hugely popular app, it has been hampered with negative publicity because people have used it to swap "sexy" photos. However, the author of this guide maintains that there "is nothing inherently dangerous about Snapchat, early news coverage fairly predictably associated disappearing photos sent on phones with "sexting".

"Many assume Snapchat's biggest draw is the temporary nature of its messages, which encourages people to share racy images without worrying about the repercussions.

"But most people - including most teens - don’t use Snapchat that way. They use it because it’s fun".

The manual also reminds both parents and Snapchat users that although there are stories about the negative side of Snapchat, these incidents are few and far between.

"Of course kids can get into trouble using Snapchat or any other service, but the same can be said for swimming pools. That’s why we teach them how to swim".