Omegle’s Shutdown comes as a shock to young people around the world. 

Omegle’s Shutdown comes as a shock to young people around the world. The online service, which connected strangers through anonymous video chats for over a decade, has become a staple reference in the digital lives of many TikTokers. But, partly because the randomization of the site which allowed young people to interact with people across the globe, often exposed them to potential sexual predators—making for many unfortunate stories. In a farewell letter posted on the site, Omegle’s owner cited increased criminal activity as the primary reason for his decision, stating, “Unless the tide turns soon, the internet I fell in love with may cease to exist, and in its place, we will have something closer to a souped-up version of TV— focused largely on passive consumption, with much less opportunity for active participation and genuine human connection.” (NYT)