Who are you really chatting with?Safe online – tips for children and teens
Smartphone, tablet, PC: online is your home. To help you stay protected, here's a short self-check and practical tips.
Adults deliberately search online for children and teens to talk to them about sex?
Self-check: Are you ready for Kogao?
Answer the questions honestly for yourself. If you can answer most with “Yes”, you're well prepared.
Tap Yes or No on each question – your result updates live.
Tips: How to protect yourself
With these simple rules you're safer on Kogao – and you'll know what to do if something feels off.
Share little personal info
- Use a made-up name instead of your real name.
- Don't share your address, school, phone number or email with strangers.
- Turn off location access in your profile.
Photos? Keep them neutral
- Don't publish personal or suggestive photos.
- Think carefully before sending pictures of yourself.
- Remember: once sent = hard to stop.
Beware of files & links
- Don't open unknown files or links.
- Be careful with streams and downloads.
- Illegal content can cause serious problems.
Recognise warning signs
- Be suspicious of exaggerated compliments or pressure.
- End the conversation if it turns to sexual topics or requests for pictures.
- Distrust secret chats or unrealistic promises.
Protect family & friends
- Don't pass on information about other people.
- Don't share numbers or email addresses without permission.
- Always ask before posting anything about others.
Secure your login details
- Use a strong, unique password.
- Never share your password with anyone.
- Enable extra security features where possible.
Help & info
Sometimes it's easier to talk to someone you trust than to your parents – or to someone neutral. If something feels off or you're affected: you're not alone.
If someone pressures you
- Stop, block, report. You have nothing to be ashamed of.
- Report on Kogao: report function in listings & messages.
Find out more:
Find support
You can report inappropriate content or messages from other users to us at any time – report it. There are also support services you can use anonymously and free of charge.
Have you experienced bullying or other digital violence?
Free, professional and anonymous counselling for girls and boys:
- ¹ https://www.innocenceindanger.de/fuer-medien-politik/
- ² https://www.gefangenimnetz.de/