What to do if someone makes you uncomfortable on a video chat
· Callumbra
Most video chat conversations are normal and friendly, but sometimes someone makes you uncomfortable: inappropriate comments, pushiness, insults or something you don't want to see. Knowing what to do in advance lets you react quickly and without guilt.
First: hang up without explaining
You don't owe anyone an explanation. If something makes you uncomfortable, end the call or move on to the next person. The sooner, the better: arguing or trying to reason usually drags out the bad moment.
Block and report
- Blocking stops you from being matched with that person again.
- Reporting alerts the site's team so they can review it and it doesn't happen to others. State the reason as clearly as possible.
- If possible, report during the call or right after it ends, so it's linked to that conversation.
If you're threatened or asked for something
- Don't send money, photos or personal information, even if they pressure you.
- If they threaten to publish something, don't pay: keep screenshots and get help from the police in your country.
- If the person looks underage, report it immediately: adult sites must review it as a priority.
Afterwards: look after yourself
A bad moment online can leave a bad taste. It's fine to take a break, talk it over with someone you trust and come back when you feel like it. What the other person did is not your fault.
How it works on Callumbra
On Callumbra the «Report or block» button is visible during the call. When you use it, the call ends, you won't be matched again and a person on the team reviews the case; the reported person doesn't know who reported them. It's 18+ only and video calls are not recorded.
Frequently asked questions
Does the other person know I reported them?
On Callumbra, no: the report is confidential and is reviewed by a person on the team.
What do I do if I saw something that upset me?
Hang up, report and give yourself some time. Talking it over with someone you trust helps. It's not your fault.