Children targeted in sick social media MOMO challenge which encourages them to self-harm and commit suicide

The 'MOMO' game has a terrifying face appear on kids online content and forces them to perform violent dares.

The creepy doll with bulging eyes also threatens children who don't take part in the disturbing tasks, to scare them into following through.

It also urges them to add a contact on messaging service WhatsApp before bombarding them with sinister images.

The horror figure has also reportedly interrupted episodes of Peppa Pig urging children to take part in self harm challenges.

But parents are being told NOT to worry and that the situation is under control.

Now police and East Ayrshire council are blasting the dangerous trend and are warning parents to beware of the 'challenge'.

Schools across the country have also sent out warnings urging parents not to panic about the game.

East Ayrshire Council said: "A dangerous online game called MOMO is targeting children on social media.

"It instructs them to do dangerous tasks & threatens violence if not done. Set up their device safely and get them to report anything scary or worrying."

Police said: "A dangerous online game called MOMO is targeting children on social media. "It instructs them to do dangerous tasks and threatens violence if not done. Set up their device safely and get them to report anything scary or worrying."

It is understood the original artwork used by the hackers has been taken from a designer in Japan who has no connection whatsoever with the Momo challenge.