A stranger started a surprise video call. What do I do?
Decline a surprise call. Check any claimed booking through a known contact.
You can decline a video call you did not expect. An unknown caller does not by itself mean your device was hacked.
If you expect a call from a clinic, tutor or service, check your booking details or known contact.
A clear face and familiar voice are not proof of who is there. Video and sound can be copied or changed.
- Decline if you are unsure. You do not need to call back because it rings again.
- If you answered, you can end the call. Do not share your screen, codes, ID or private space.
- Check any claimed booking through a contact you had before the call.
- Block and report repeated unwanted calls through the app. Check who can call you in its privacy settings.
- If someone threatens you, keep the account name, date and messages. Seek help from the platform or local authorities. Do not pay to make the threat go away.
Draft a note to a service's known contact. Ask whether a surprise video call was theirs. Use placeholders. Do not include private details or claim the caller was real or fake.
Paste the message into ChatGPT, then fill in any blanks before you send it. ChatGPT opens in a new tab. Opening it does not send the message.
For an immediate threat to your safety, contact local emergency services.
Sources and more help
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