Anonymity is the new buzzword on social.

New social network Ello has seen huge sign ups after pledging not to sell user data, while Facebook Rooms is designed to be a place where like-minded users can collaborate, without using their real names.

But before all of this there was Whisper.

Quiet does it

Whisper works like this: any user can post an anonymous message on the app using a visual macro, which is typically text overlaid on an image.

When you open Whisper six such macros are displayed, with each displaying a different “secret”.

Hidden meaning

Users are identified via handles rather than their real names, and can post and respond to messages publicly or privately. 

The only way to contact other users is through the messages they post. As an added precaution, users wanting to access their own messages must enter a PIN, to safeguard content in the event their smartphone falls into the wrong hands

Not so secret

Whisper is wildly popular with users, and at last count it was attracting over 3.5 billion hits per month, with the average user checking in eight times per day.

It's estimated up to 90% of Whisper's users fall into the 18 – 24 age bracket.

If you'd like to get in on the secret visit whisper.

If you enjoyed this article then subscribe FREE to the twice weekly SMK Digital Bulletin, click here now or visit www.smk.net.au/subscribe.

Also, click here download a FREE SMK Insghts Program. This FREE programs features 131 must-know social stats covering Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn, YouTube and Instagram. Keep on top of the latest social facts and figures relating to usage rates, demographics, spending trends, content performance and best practice benchmarks. A MUST for every marketer!