OMEGLE

OMEGLE

MINIMUM AGE: 18+
 
WHAT IS IT?
A site that randomly connects 'you' to another person identified as 'stranger'. It lets you talk to them one-to-one via 'text', 'video' or both. You can both appear as anonymous, unless you decide to share your personal information. It's free and no account sign up is required. 

WHAT WE SAY:
Avoid.

• "Millions of strangers waiting for live chat on Omegle. Select a match to start a live video call to meet local people nearby or random & free chat with strangers from all over the world" (Taken from Play Store). 
• Omegle lets users meet new people nearby and worldwide. 
• Omegle states “No matter where you are, you can use OMEGLE and start to talk to strangers!”
• This statement causes huge concern as users cannot manage their safety if they share personal information with strangers.
• Personal information does not just include exchange of words but also images and videos.
• Children who have used this app have highlighted that they have seen inappropriate content including sex, violence, bullying, self-harm, suicide, drugs and crime.

Omegle alternatives to watch out for...
There are other platforms similar to Omegle. Children or young people may try to access these alternatives if Omegle is blocked on their brower:

• Tinychat 
• Chatrandom
• Chatroulette
• YouNow
• Monkey 

TYPES OF CHAT OPTIONS:
​
Adult - anyone can access this. The user only needs to confirm by clicking a button then they're redirected to an external site. Users will see explicit content and pornographic acts. 
Moderated Chat - according to Omegle they moderate chats. However, they also stated "moderation is not perfect..."
Unmoderated Chat - This option comes with a warning box advising the user that they must be 18+. However, the user just has to click 'ok' and enter to access this chat function. 
Anonymous Chat - The text chat has a 'spy' function where users can log on as a hidden 3rd party in a text chat between two people. The 'spy' can then ask the other two users to discuss a certain topic or question and view their replies. The 'spy' can exit at anytime without ending the chat. 

SAFETY TIPS TO CONSIDER:​

• There is an under 18 section, but this is still not safe at all.
• People you don’t know can watch your videos - personal information could be shared​.
• Sexualised content is possible - ask children to tell you if anything goes wrong.
• Users are able to connect with anyone - talk to children and young people about the dangers of chatting to strangers online.
• 'Real Friends' - remind children and young people there is no such thing as an 'Online Friend'. They should only ever connect with people parents or carers know and trust.
• Explain the risks associated with streaming a live video to an unknown audience - personal information could be shared.
• ​Live videos can receive responses which can mean that inappropriate content can be sent - ask children and young people to tell you if anything goes wrong​.
• Also make sure they use their device in a room whereby adults at home are present.
• Have open discussions with children and young people about the topics associated with online use - bullying, grooming, sexual and criminal exploitation, body image, as well as accessing support and how to report. 

FURTHER SUPPORT:
For parents/ carers If you're worried about your child or need support call NSPCC helpline on 0808 800 5000. 

If you discover criminal content when online then report it directly to the police or the Internet Watch Foundation. 

If you're worried about online grooming or sexual behaviour online then report directly to the police or contact CEOP. 

For Children & young people if they're worried or want to talk, encourage them to contact Childline Online or call 0800 1111. 

Check out our Resource Centre for further information and useful online safety tips.

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