What you can do
- When a request arrives, think about how you know the person. If unsure, ask an adult before accepting. A name and photo do not prove who is writing.
- You do not have to reply or continue a conversation. This applies even to someone you know or initially wanted to talk to.
- Do not send photos, money, codes or your location under pressure. Do not agree to a secret meeting or move to a new private chat to please someone.
- Tell an adult you trust what is happening. You can get help even if you have already replied or sent something.
- Ask for help noting the username, platform and time and keeping threatening messages. Do not download or forward intimate images. Ask specialist support or the police how to preserve evidence if such images are involved.
- Use the app’s current help to report and block the contact. An adult can help; you do not need to send a final message.
- Review who can contact you. If the person returns with another account, do not reply and ask the adult for help again.
Avoid
- Do not pay or send more to make threats stop.
- Do not save or share intimate images as evidence. Ask for help with another way.
For parents
- Thank your child for telling you. Help should not depend on whether they followed your agreements.
- Ask a specialist online-safety service for support with online abuse. Seek police advice if you suspect a crime.