Family group chats: Fun way to stay in touch or a Pandora’s box?

While using messenger services to stay in touch with family members through group chats can be a positive way to communicate, there are also some downsides. Here are a few rules to keep in mind. Photo: 123rf.com

Mum is typing... typing... typing... And after an eternity: Ping! Mum has sent a thumbs up or a crab emoji to the entire family group chat.

Messenger services such as WhatsApp and Threema have created ways for families to keep in touch, even across long distances. But the way different generations use these services to communicate can create funny – or infuriating – results.