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What is the app SimSimi, and why has it been suspended in Ireland?

The company behind chat-bot SimSimi has suspended any downloads of the app in Ireland, after it was associated with cyber-bullying.

The Korean made app allows users to view anonymous, and often insulting, messages left about them by typing in their name.

Catherine Flanagan, a secondary school teacher from Dublin, said: “The app started to take personal information and target students who couldn't understand how the app was working - it became very hurtful.”

In a statement, SimSimi said: “In Ireland, suddenly too many serious inquiries were received, so we temporarily prevented Irish users from having a conversation with SimSimi. Anything you feel offensive or inappropriate can ask us to remove it.”

This clip was taken from 5 live Breakfast on Friday 31st March 2017.

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