Online Safety: Online Chat Sites 

 I would like to make you aware of a website called Omegle. Omegle is a website that pairs random strangers for live text or video chats. It launched in 2009 and its slogan is “Talk to strangers!” There is an option for adult (18+) content and a section for people aged 13+ with parental permission. Anyone can use the site. Users simply go to Omegle.com and then choose ‘Text’ or ‘Video’ chat and the page states how many users are currently online. Depending on the time of day this can be hundreds of thousands. Omegle markets itself as a great way to meet new friends however has been known to feature pornography and inappropriate content within chats, so it’s important parents are aware of the risks associated with the site. 

Recently, we have become aware that some of our students have been using this website. In school we promote the dangers and risks involved in using sites like these. Children can easily be groomed and led on. 

In addition to the awareness raising in school, could I ask that you discuss the potential dangers of sites like these with your child. On the following page I have included an information sheet which gives you more guidance on this site, to allow you to have an informed conversation. 

Read the full letter from Mr Redhead