A friendly guide to chatting with strangers online

Why people talk to strangers

Some people want to practise a language. Others want to vent after a long day, share a hobby, or just pass an evening with someone who has a different point of view.

A stranger does not know your friends or your history, which can make it easier to be honest.

It also works the other way around: you may be the stranger who brightens someone else's evening.

What to expect

Chats vary. Some last a couple of minutes, some turn into long, thoughtful conversations. Both are normal. You can always leave and meet someone new.

Treat a stranger's replies at face value, but stay a little curious: people are free to share as much or as little as they like.

• A random name and face avatar, not a real identity
• Text, voice notes, GIFs and reactions
• A match in seconds, usually
• Interests and languages to help you connect

Simple habits for good conversations

Be kind, ask questions and listen to the answers. Keep your personal details private: there is no need to share your full name, address or phone number with someone you have just met.

If anything feels wrong, you can stop, report and block.

A good rule is to treat every chat the way you would like to be treated.

How StrangerYaar helps

It is anonymous and needs no sign-up. There is no camera or video at all. Photos are blurred and checked, and stranger chats are not stored unless reported. Everyone has to be 18 or older.

It is a good idea to start with a short chat to see how it feels, then decide how much time you want to spend. There is no minimum and no pressure.

From one chat to a friend

If you enjoy a conversation, tap Add friend to keep talking later. Plenty of good friendships start with a single hello.

Ideas for conversation starters

If you freeze after hello, borrow one of these: What is the best meal you have had recently? If you could be anywhere right now, where would it be? What are you studying, building or learning at the moment?

Language can make a difference as well. With 33 languages supported, you can choose to chat in the one you feel most relaxed in, or one you want to practise.