Parents urged to decode emoji use in online chats for safety

Parents and guardians are being encouraged to take an active role in understanding social media use among children amid renewed attention on online safety and the evolving language of digital communication.

The recent global popularity of the Netflix series Adolescence has highlighted various online risks facing young people, as well as the increasing complexity of communication codes used on social media platforms.

Emoji codes

The show brought international attention to the secret emoji codes frequently utilised by children and teenagers when discussing illicit or sensitive topics online. According to guidelines shared by Optus, an emoji as seemingly innocuous as grapes may be used to refer to "rape" or "sexual assault", while the pill emoji is linked to incel culture and the broader manosphere. The guidance indicates these meanings can be context-dependent, and it cautions parents not to jump to conclusions based on emoji use alone.

The challenging nature of keeping abreast of these evolving codes has prompted Optus to share an updated emoji guide for parents and guardians. The organisation aims to equip adults with the necessary tools to interpret potential red flags in their children's messaging.

Guidance for guardians

"These meanings shift fast and are context-dependent - none of them are proof something unsafe is happening."

This advice underpins the guidance provided by the Optus Digital Thumbprint programme, which seeks to improve digital literacy and safety awareness among school-aged children across Australia.

Optus advises parents and guardians to remain calm if they notice concerning emoji use and to approach the subject with open-ended questions. Example prompts include, "I noticed you used an emoji – what does that mean to you?" The aim is to maintain open lines of communication, allowing children to explain their own interpretations before any further steps are taken.

The guidance further directs parents to look for broader patterns of behaviour such as secretive direct messages, contact with unknown older individuals, or repeated references to sexual or drug-related content. It also encourages vigilance concerning behaviour potentially linked to incel culture, which is further described by Optus as: "Incel describes someone, usually male, who is unable to find a romantic or sexual partner despite desiring one and places blame, objectifies, and denigrates women as a result."

Should serious concerns arise, parents are advised to consult resources such as Optus Digital Thumbprint, Australian Federal Police ThinkUKnow or the eSafety Commissioner, and to report issues where appropriate. However, the advice emphasises that, "Report if necessary but focus first on keeping conversations open and supportive."

Digital literacy efforts

The Optus Digital Thumbprint programme provides free educational sessions to schools both in-person and online, focusing on topics including cyberbullying, privacy, digital security, and responsible technology use. The programme has engaged more than 700,000 primary and secondary students in Australia since its inception in 2013.

Endorsed by the Office of the eSafety Commissioner, the programme is intended to provide young Australians with skills to navigate digital spaces safely and to make informed choices about their online interactions.

Optus's statement explains: "Educating children on how to navigate the complex digital environment is crucial to ensure they have safe and positive online experiences."

Impact of Adolescence

Adolescence has enjoyed significant global recognition with approximately 141 million views recorded over five months. The series has prompted governments, such as that of the United Kingdom, to develop policies aimed at regulating social media use among youth.

The series received eight awards at the 2025 Emmy Awards, including Outstanding Limited or Anthology Series, and has been cited by public figures, including Prime Minister Anthony Albanese, who has encouraged both schools and parents to watch the programme for its educational value on the topic of online safety.

Optus representatives and online safety advocates alike are urging adults to stay informed about shifting trends in digital communication and to prioritise conversations with young people about their online activities. The updated emoji guide is intended as one part of this broader strategy to keep children safe in an ever-evolving digital world.