In the space of a few weeks, the Houseparty app has become nothing short of a sensation.

As millions have locked themselves away at home in self-isolation, Houseparty has emerged as a viral success, with a surge in downloads from an average of 130,000 a week in February to more than two million a week in March, according to data firm Apptopia.

But as the app has risen in popularity, concerns have been raised about its safety.

On March 31, after reports emerged from users of their accounts being hacked, Houseparty tweeted that it was “investigating indications that the recent hacking rumours were spread by a paid commercial smear campaign”.

The company is offering a $1m (£810,000) bounty to the first person who can provide proof for such a campaign, but as millions continue to use the app during the coronavirus outbreak, how exactly does the app work, is it safe to use and how do you delete it?

How it works

The free to use app, owned by the developer of Fortnite, allows users to play in-app games and quizzes, as well as allowing them to make video calls with contacts in what has been designed to feel like a real house party.

When contacts come online, a push notification is sent to let others know so a “room” can be organised for friends to join. Rooms can be locked to limit conversations to people who know each other, or can be left open for strangers to join.