How to stay safe when you chat with strangers online

By the Otrigal team · Updated 1 November 2026 · 6 min read

What you should never share

• Your full name, home address, school, college, or workplace.
• Your phone number, email, or social media handles, until you really know the person.
• Photos or videos you would not want anyone to see.
• Bank, card, ID or one-time code details. A real person will never need them in a chat.

Small details add up. A uniform, a street sign or a letter on your desk can show where you are. Check what is behind you before you start a video call.

Treat your camera as public

Anyone on a video call can try to record their screen. Show only what you are happy to have saved. If you are unsure, use text chat first, or turn your camera off and see how the conversation goes.

Common scams and pressure to watch for

• Asking for money. A sad story, a prize, or "just a small help". Do not send money to someone you have just met.
• "Let's move to another app." It can be harmless, but it also takes you away from the site's reporting tools. Be slow to do it.
• Links and "verify you are real" pages. Do not click them. They are often made to steal your login.
• Too good to be true. Instant love, big offers and fast friendship are often a script. Read more in how to spot bots and scams.
• Threats. If someone says they will share a photo or a recording of you unless you pay or send more, stop. Do not pay. Take screenshots of what they wrote, block and report them, and tell someone you trust. If the threat involves a private image, StopNCII.org can help stop it from spreading.

Skip first, explain never

You do not owe anyone a reason. If a chat feels wrong, skip it. If someone breaks the rules, report them after you skip. On Otrigal every chat has skip and report, and the community guidelines say what is not allowed. See how reports and bans work.

Habits that help

• Chat in a place where you feel comfortable, and not when you are very tired or upset.
• Use a nickname, not your real name.
• Do not agree to meet in person with someone from a random chat.
• Keep your browser and phone updated.
• If something upsets you, take a break. Talk to a friend.

If you feel unsafe or in danger

Leave the chat first. If you are in immediate danger, call your local emergency number. Otrigal cannot send help to your location. You can also read how we approach trust and safety or write to our team about a person.

A note on age

Otrigal is for adults 18 and over. If you are under 18, please do not use random video chat. If you are a parent and you find a young person using it, tell us at support.

Frequently asked questions

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