10 Digital Safety Tips for Teenagers and Adults

Staying safe online is crucial — and the rules apply equally whether you're a teenager or a seasoned adult. These 10 tips are applicable across StrangerBase and any other social platform you use.

1. Use a VPN for extra privacy — masks your IP address so strangers can't approximate your location.
2. Never click links from strangers — phishing and malware distribution through chat is common and effective.
3. Trust your gut instinct — if a chat feels wrong, end it immediately. You don't owe anyone your time.
4. Keep your webcam covered when not in use — a physical cover is the simplest protection against unauthorized camera access.
5. Don't share your real name early — a username is enough. Real names come later, if ever.
6. Screenshot harassment for reporting — if someone is threatening or abusive, capture the evidence before reporting.
7. Be aware of location signals — specific street names, local landmarks, or visible signage in photos can reveal where you are.
8. Keep chat platform credentials separate — use unique passwords for every platform, managed in a password manager.
9. Know the block and report tools — spend 60 seconds learning them before you need them in a stressful moment.
10. Talk to someone you trust — if an online interaction makes you feel unsafe or confused, tell a real-world person about it.