You Do Not Owe
a Stranger an Exit Interview
A clear goodbye is polite when a chat is merely finished. Immediate departure is appropriate when it becomes unsafe.
Choose the right exit featured profileHi 👋
// three controls
Leave, block and report solve different problems
Leave
Use when the conversation is complete, dull, mismatched or uncomfortable. “Thanks, I’m heading out” is enough when saying it feels safe.
Block
Use when you do not want recontact. Blocking may be account-specific; it does not erase screenshots or prevent a new account.
Report
Use for threats, sexual coercion, suspected minors, scams, hate, repeated harassment or other rule violations. Describe observable conduct rather than guessing identity.
// words if you want them
Four closers without negotiation
“I’m ending the chat now.” · “I don’t share that information.” · “No, and I’m leaving.” · “This conversation is over.”
Do not explain a boundary repeatedly. An explanation gives a manipulative person more material to argue with. If there is a threat or underage signal, skip the line and use the controls.
// after exit
Close the technical loop
Capture only the account, threat or transaction information needed for a report. Do not retain or forward intimate material. Remove camera and microphone permissions if you do not want them saved, close off-platform contact, and contact a payment provider immediately if money moved.
// exit rehearsal
Practice the control before emotion makes it harder
Interfaces move buttons between desktop and mobile. Spend a minute locating the controls while calm, then rehearse the order you would use if the other person became threatening.
Ordinary mismatch
Use a short goodbye and Leave or Next. Blocking is unnecessary unless recontact is possible or unwanted.
Rule violation
Leave, then report through the product flow. Include the conduct and approximate time. Do not reopen contact to obtain a confession.
Credible threat
Preserve the threat and account reference, block contact, tell someone you trust and use the appropriate local reporting route. Immediate danger belongs with emergency services.
An exit plan is successful when it reduces continued exposure. It is not measured by whether the stranger understood, apologized or agreed with your boundary.