Vermont college blocks anonymous social media site

A Vermont college president has blocked access to the anonymous social media site Yik Yak, saying it was being used to make cyberattacks on some students.

Norwich University President Richard Schneider says he realizes his decision to block access to Yik Yak via the school's computer system is largely symbolic because students can access it elsewhere, but says he had to do something.

Yik Yak, launched in November, describes itself as an anonymous gossip app. Elsewhere in the U.S., individuals have been charged with crimes for online threats or harassment via Yik Yak.

Yik Yak says that like any social media app, it can be misused. Yik Yak has blocked access from areas near most middle and high schools and says the app is intended for people 17 or older.

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