Staying Safe Online: A Message to Teens from the Crimes Against Children Task Force and The Blue Ribbon Project
Why Internet Safety Matters
When you're online, it can feel like you're in your own space, chatting with friends or followers. But not everyone is who they say they are. Online predators are skilled at pretending to be someone else to earn your trust. They might say the right things, offer compliments, or even send gifts—just to get close to you. Their goal is often to manipulate, exploit, or harm young people.
Apps like ome.tv, where users can video chat with strangers in real-time, create opportunities for predators to make contact with teens. These apps aren’t inherently bad—but they can become dangerous if used without caution.
Real Talk: What Predators Do Online
Predators don’t always show up looking scary. In fact, they often appear friendly, charming, and supportive. They use tactics like:
- Catfishing: Pretending to be a teen themselves using fake photos or profiles.
- Grooming: Slowly building trust by chatting frequently, giving compliments, or acting like a “safe” adult.
- Isolation: Encouraging you to keep the relationship secret from friends or family.
- Manipulation: Making you feel guilty, scared, or dependent on them.
- Exploitation: Asking for inappropriate pictures or personal information, or trying to meet up in person.
If someone you met online is making you uncomfortable or asking you to keep secrets, that’s a red flag.
Top Safety Tips for Using ome.tv and Similar Apps
1. Keep Personal Information Private
Never share your full name, address, school name, or phone number. Avoid showing your location in videos or using real-time location settings.
2. Don’t Add or Chat with Strangers
Only connect with people you actually know in real life. If someone you don’t know tries to message you or engage in private conversations, block and report them.
3. Think Before You Share
Once something is online—like a photo or video—it can be saved or shared by others, even if you delete it. Never share private images, no matter how much someone pressures you. If someone is asking for pictures, tell a trusted adult immediately.
4. Use Privacy Settings
ome.tv has limited privacy controls, which means you must be even more cautious. If possible, avoid using platforms that randomly connect you with strangers if you're under 18.
5. Talk to Someone You Trust
If something doesn’t feel right, it probably isn’t. You’re never being dramatic for speaking up. Whether it’s a parent, teacher, school counselor, or someone at The Blue Ribbon Project—we’re here to listen and help.
6. Report Suspicious Activity
ome.tv may have tools to report and block users. Use them immediately if someone is inappropriate. If someone makes you feel scared, uncomfortable, or pressured, report them—and let a trusted adult know.
Remember: It’s Not Your Fault
Predators are responsible for their actions, not you. Even if you made a mistake or shared something you now regret, you're not to blame. You deserve support, not shame. There is help available—always.
The Blue Ribbon Project and the Crimes Against Children Task Force have resources designed specifically for youth. We’re not here to scare you—we’re here to protect you and to empower you with the truth.
If You Need Help Right Now:
If you or a friend are in danger or experiencing harassment online:
- Tell a trusted adult immediately.
- Call 911 if someone is trying to meet you in person or if you feel unsafe.
- You can also contact:
- The Blue Ribbon Project at www.blueribbonproject.org
- National Center for Missing & Exploited Children (NCMEC): 1-800-THE-LOST (1-800-843-5678)
Final Thoughts
Being online is part of everyday life. But just like you lock your doors at night and look both ways before crossing the street, you should also protect yourself when using apps like ome.tv. You deserve a safe space to have fun, create, and connect.
From all of us at the Crimes Against Children Task Force and The Blue Ribbon Project, remember:
You are never alone. You have the power to stay safe—and we’ve got your back.