What is the Blue Whale Game?

The Blue Whale Game also known as the "Blue Whale Challenge", is a 21st century social network phenomenon.

The game, played in many countries, reportedly consists of a series of tasks assigned to players by administrators over a 50 day period, with the final challenge requiring the player to commit suicide.

It came to light in May 2016, through an article in a Russian Newspaper, Novaya Gazeta, that linked many unrelated child suicides to membership of group "F57" on the Russian-based Vkontakte social network. A wave of moral panic swept through Russia. However the piece was later criticised and none of the suicides was found to be as a result of the group activities.

Experts suggest Blue Whale was originally a sensationalised hoax, they believe that it is likely that the phenomenon has led to instances of imitative self-harming and copycat groups, leaving vulnerable children at risk of cyberbullying and online shaming. It is based on the relationship between the participants (challengers) and administrators. The administrator prescribes a series of duties that players must complete, usually one per day, some of which involved self-mutilation. Participation though now seems to be receding, however, internet safety organisations have reacted by giving advice to parents and educators on suicide prevention and mental health awareness.

In 2016,Philip Budekin a 21 year old former psychology student, claimed to have invented the game in 2013.