THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: Live video chat platform Omegle, that netizens used to communicate with strangers from across the globe, has shut down after 15 years. Controversies erupted after a BBC investigation in 2021 found that children are exposing themselves to strangers on the website.

Complaints of sexual exploitation of women and children through the free platform was raised in several countries. 33 lakh people, including Malayalees, were daily users of Omegle.

Omegle connects random people for virtual video and text chats, and claims to be moderated, but it is not strict. All one have to do is click on 'Talk to Strangers' icon on the website to enter the world of Omegle. It became more popular around the world during the pandemic.

Incidents of video calls of women being recorded for use in nude videos with the help of AI (Artificial Intelligence) were reported. Some befriended the children and leaked their personal information. Some appear as scary figures, which can even cause trauma to adults.

Other similar platforms

Platforms like TinyChat, You Now, Chat Random, We-Chat, Chat Room are more dangerous than Omegle. There is no option to block a random stranger. Some also make derogatory remarks about colour, race and caste. It is difficult to track down the perpetrators as they do not reveal their identity.

Omegle

Video call platform made by 18-year-old Leif K-Brooks in 2009

This is peopular in age ground of 13-24

The economic crisis also led to the shut down of Omegle