Frequently Asked Questions
What is Yik Yak?
Yik Yak is an anonymous community app for college students that lets you post, comment, and message with your campus. Think campus chatter with real personality and zero name tags.
Is Yik Yak free to use?
Yes, the app is free to download and use. There are no required subscriptions or hidden charges so you can yak without worrying about your wallet.
Is Yik Yak really anonymous?
Yes. Your name, phone number, and email are never shown to other users. You start out fully anonymous like a ninja in a herd of yaks. If you want to flex your Yakarma with a username that option is there but it is not required.
Is Yik Yak still popular?
Yes. Yik Yak with Sidechat is the most popular anonymous app for U.S. college students. Millions of people post, vote, and laugh on it every day. If you are on campus and not on Yak, you are missing out.
Why was Yik Yak shut down?
The original Yik Yak shut down in 2017 because its rapid growth outpaced its ability to manage content moderation effectively. In plain English the herd got too big too fast. After relaunching in 2021 with completely overhauled moderation and then joining Sidechat in 2023, which requires .edu email addresses to join most communities, Yik Yak now has the right tools to keep things safe, fun, and steady.
Why did Yik Yak fail?
The original Yik Yak shut down in 2017 because it grew faster than it could handle moderation. Think of it like trying to ride a yak without a saddle. Since 2021 and especially after joining Sidechat in 2023, Yik Yak has stronger systems to make sure the same problems do not come back.
Who owns Yik Yak?
Yik Yak is owned by Sidechat. The team gave us stronger safety systems and moderation. Same herd energy, new leadership.
Do people use Yik Yak to cheat?
Yik Yak is not designed for cheating. The app is focused on positive student and graduate communities. Think laughs, confessions, and advice, not test prep shortcuts.
Can you get permanently banned on Yik Yak?
Yes, breaking community rules can result in a permanent ban. Play nice or the herd will send you packing.
Does Yik Yak delete posts with downvotes?
Posts with too many downvotes may be removed to keep feeds positive. If the herd does not like it, the post will not last.
Can you use Yik Yak on a computer?
You can browse public Yik Yak content at web.yikyak.com. To post, comment, and vote you need the Yik Yak app on iPhone.
Is Yik Yak only for college students?
No. Yik Yak is not only for college students. College feeds are limited to verified .edu emails. Other interest communities are open to all U.S. residents with a phone number.
What are the pros and cons of Yik Yak?
Pros include anonymous posting, active communities, verified college feeds, and real time moderation. Cons include not knowing exactly who you are interacting with and not being able to curate your profile with photos. On Yak it is all about what you say, not how you look.
Can you swear on Yik Yak?
Yes, you can swear but moderation and community rules still apply. Drop a curse word and you are fine. Cross the line and your post may disappear.
Can you join multiple schools on Yik Yak?
No. You can only join one college community that matches your .edu email. Most people also join interest communities like Confessions or College Basketball to connect with students outside their school.
What is the difference between Sidechat and Yik Yak?
The difference is branding, design, and which campuses prefer each app. Both apps are run by the same team with the same safety and moderation.
Can you private message on Yik Yak?
Yes. To receive private messages you must enable them on specific posts. You control when people can send you a DM.
Can you DM someone on Yik Yak?
Yes. You can allow direct messages by enabling them on each post. If you want replies in your DMs you have to open the door.
Do Yik Yak DMs disappear?
No. Yik Yak DMs do not automatically disappear. Messages that break the rules may be removed by moderators.
Is Yik Yak all local?
No. Feeds are based on your verified college and the interest communities you join. For example Bama students can keep yakking with their school feed even if they are in Cabo on spring break.
Does NYU have Yik Yak?
Yes. Yik Yak is active at NYU along with nearly every major U.S. university. It is basically the most popular club on campus without a cover charge.
How to get banned on Yik Yak?
Violating community rules such as harassment, hate speech, inappropriate posts, or creating multiple accounts can get you banned. The rule is simple: do not be a jerk.
What are the rules of Yik Yak?
Community guidelines focus on safety, respect, and positivity. Harmful posts, threats, and repeat downvote offenders will be removed. Repeat offenders can be banned.
Where was Yik Yak most popular?
Yik Yak is most popular on U.S. college campuses. From Big 10 football to Make-up styling, the herd is everywhere.
Can you search keywords on Yik Yak?
No. Search is not currently available in Yik Yak. The fun is seeing what shows up around you in real time.
How do you get on Yik Yak?
Download the free app from the App Store, sign up with your phone number, and verify with a .edu email if you want access to your private college feed. It is that simple. App Store
Do people hookup on Yik Yak?
Yik Yak is a community app. People use it in different ways depending on the community they are in. Some post about relationships, others share advice, and plenty post memes.
Can my Yik Yak be traced back to me?
Posts on Yik Yak are anonymous. Nobody on the app can track who you are. Government agencies can only request information if they have legal cause.
Can police track Yik Yak?
Your identity is hidden on Yik Yak. Like any app Yik Yak can be required by law to provide information when legally compelled.
How does Yik Yak work now?
You post anonymously in communities you join. Most people join their college edu community, while many join communities like swifties, college football, and movies. Other people upvote, downvote, and comment. Moderators and safety systems keep it positive.
Is there an app like Yik Yak?
Yes. Sidechat is similar to Yik Yak and offers a similar anonymous posting experience.
How do I report content or users?
Tap the three dots on any post or reply and choose Report. Our moderation team reviews reports quickly. For urgent safety issues, see Stay Safe and Mental Health resources.
I have a campus or media inquiry.
For campus ambassador and media opportunities, visit Media/Collabs.
How do I contact support?
Email support@yikyak.com for general support. You can also see options on our Support page.
