 |
What is ASK.FM?
A question-and-answer social networking site. The only difference? The identity of the questioner can remain absolutely anonymous! (Yes, something like a Confessions Page.)
It has 70 million registered users and is adding members at a rate of 2,00,000 per day. It’s spreading from teen to teen (like mobile sensations Instagram and Snapchat). It was launched on June 16, 2010 and has its headquarters in Riga, Latvia.
How does it work?
Create a profile, search for friends, and start asking! While asking a question, you can choose to be anonymous or not. Then simply scroll down someone’s profile to see their list of questions and be prepared to ROFL! You can ‘like’ or ‘flag’ any question you want to.
Most of the ‘asks’ are just harmless — ‘Will you go out with me?’ or ‘Are you dating so-and-so?’ Of course, one has the option of not answering a question. You can follow the people you want to and ignore the irritating ones and so keep your news feed clean and nonsense-free.
One can ask himself/herself a question too and answer it. This has led to many asking themselves questions to look cool (of course, no one will ever get to know that you’re the one praising yourself!).
Why is it a craze?
Everyone wants a bit of gossip and controversy and ask.fm gives you just that. Plus, it’s timepass. “In the school circuit, this site is really popular among the boys and girls sections. Everyone wants to know who’s going around with whom. There are questions like, ‘What happened to your ex?’, ‘Is there a chance for me?’, and even mundane ones like, ‘Do you like to read the newspaper or watch TV?”’ says the math teacher of a south Calcutta school.
I DON’T HAVE ANY FRIENDS ON ASK.FM
No sweat. Just sync your profile with your Facebook and/or Twitter account to find friends more easily. This way, you can allow your questions and answers to be posted on your other social networking profiles if you want everyone to see it.
PS: Don’t share each question all the time and spam your friends’ Facebook newsfeed!
Is it safe?
Mostly, yes. But the site can get pretty nasty at times. Anonymity is a shield and gives you the power to ask anything. Some people use it to vent unhealthy feelings and post sexual comments, something they’d never have the courage to do in person.
“It’s really interesting to see other people’s thoughts and opinions about me. People don’t hold back on criticism especially when it’s anonymous and it’s up to you how well you take it,” says Mariam Zaki, a student.
What’s new?
To gain popularity among smartphone users, an Android app has been launched so your account is just a notification away. The option to keep a background image has added a nice personal touch. You can also add pictures or send a recorded video answer.
 |
