Safety on PodRandom

Talking to strangers can be a great way to learn — and a way to get hurt if you're not careful. Here's what you should do, what we do, and where to go when something goes wrong.

If something is happening right now

  1. 1End the call. Click End in the call control bar. You don't owe anyone an explanation.
  2. 2Report from the post-call screen. Pick a reason — harassment, inappropriate behavior, underage, CSAM. Reports are confidential.
  3. 3Block the user from their profile so the matcher never pairs you again.
  4. 4For physical-safety emergencies, call local emergency services. In the US/Canada, dial 911. We don't replace law enforcement — we work alongside them.

Before you go live

  • Don't share personal info: full name, address, phone, employer, school, finances.
  • Use a username, never your real name.
  • Be aware your background may reveal location clues — check what's behind you.
  • Use the blur background feature (Phase 2) if your room is identifiable.

During a conversation

  • If something feels off, end the call. You don't owe anyone an explanation.
  • Either party may record. A red REC indicator appears when recording is active.
  • Do not engage with anyone making sexual, violent, or threatening requests.
  • Do not click links the other party sends — phishing is common.

If you're a minor

PodRandom is not for users under 13. If you're 13–17, talk to a trusted adult before using a service that connects you with strangers. Never share school information, your home address, or photos that show your face if you're a minor.

If you encounter CSAM (child sexual abuse material)

Report it immediately via the Report button in-app. We are required by law (18 U.S.C. § 2258A) to forward reports of suspected child sexual abuse material to the National Center for Missing & Exploited Children (NCMEC).

You can also report directly to NCMEC at report.cybertip.org or call 1-800-843-5678.

If you're in crisis

If you're in distress, please reach out:

  • USA / Canada: 988 — Suicide & Crisis Lifeline (call or text)
  • UK: Samaritans 116 123
  • Worldwide: findahelpline.com — directory by country

Account suspension thresholds

Reports are confidential. We act on accumulating signal:

  • 10 reports in 24 hours → 24-hour suspension
  • 50 lifetime reports → 7-day suspension
  • 100 lifetime reports → permanent ban
  • Severe violations (CSAM, threats) → immediate permanent ban

To appeal a suspension, email appeals@podrandom.com.