How to Handle Harassment, Scams, and Threats in Online Chats
Most online conversations are ordinary, but you may sometimes encounter someone who is abusive, manipulative, threatening, or trying to scam you. You do not have to continue a conversation that makes you uncomfortable or unsafe.
1. Recognize harassment early
Harassment can include repeated insults, unwanted sexual comments, intimidation, targeted humiliation, or pressure to continue talking after you have asked someone to stop. You are allowed to leave the conversation without arguing or defending your decision.
2. Watch for common scam warning signs
Be cautious when a stranger quickly asks for money, payment details, account access, verification codes, gift cards, or urgent financial help. Promises of prizes, investments, jobs, romance, or special rewards can also be used to create pressure. Friendly conversation does not prove that a request is legitimate.
3. Do not negotiate with threats
If someone threatens you or tries to frighten you into sending money, information, or images, stop engaging. Do not send more material to satisfy the person. Preserve relevant information when it is safe to do so, then use RANDZO's safety tools and seek appropriate help if the threat is serious.
4. Be careful with unwanted sexual content
You do not have to continue a conversation involving unwanted sexual comments or images. Do not request, share, or encourage illegal sexual content. If another user violates the rules, leave the conversation and use Report and Block.
5. Do not move to another platform under pressure
A stranger may ask you to continue on another messaging or social platform so they can obtain more personal information or avoid moderation. You can simply decline. If someone repeatedly pressures you to leave RANDZO or share contact details, ending the conversation is a reasonable choice.
6. Use Report and Block
RANDZO provides Report and Block controls so users can stop unwanted contact and submit safety concerns. Use them when another person harasses, threatens, scams, or otherwise seriously violates the rules. Reports may be reviewed for safety and abuse prevention.
7. If you shared sensitive information
If you shared a password or verification code, change the affected account credentials immediately and enable multi-factor authentication where available. If financial information was exposed, contact your bank or payment provider through an official channel. Do not rely on the stranger's instructions for fixing the problem.
8. If you believe there is an immediate danger
RANDZO cannot provide emergency services. If you face an immediate physical safety risk or believe a serious crime is occurring, contact the appropriate emergency or law-enforcement service in your area. Avoid confronting the person yourself.
9. Keep evidence only when it is safe and appropriate
For serious incidents, keeping relevant usernames, timestamps, or other available details can help when making a report. Do not put yourself at risk to collect evidence, and do not redistribute abusive or illegal material.
10. Trust your judgment
You do not need to prove that someone is definitely a scammer or harasser before ending a conversation. If a conversation feels unsafe, uncomfortable, or manipulative, leave. Your safety is more important than being polite.