In the world of camming, performers utilize many safety tips to not only protect themselves, but also to protect the content that they create. As performers come to realize, letting viewers into your personal space can be intimidating, though comfort levels change as you develop your camming career.
Yet, it’s always important to stay vigilant and aware about what type of information you are putting out there. Since we’re a community that takes pride in making human connections, it’s also important to pride ourselves on safety and personal protection.
Some performers have been tempted to broadcast on Skype at the request of viewers.
Using a Stage Name
While cam sites have strict obligations to make sure anyone performing online is of legal age, with model release forms and ID checks, you should still make sure to use a stage name wherever possible.
Not only do stage names help build your brand, they also offer a way to protect your privacy. One tip I suggest is to create all of your accounts, tags and social media names using that same stage name and it is highly important you not give viewers your personal name.
Keeping Your Cam Account Safe
Make sure you keep your account information to yourself, be cautious when accepting files from anyone and do not accept people on Skype claiming to work for cam sites. In most cases, cam sites would not approach you this way. Also, make sure to never give out your password!
Country Blocking
One of the many tools that cam models utilize is called country blocking, which will allow a performer to block people within a particular country. This helps boost privacy if they wish to not broadcast either in the country they are in or in a country where their family or friends may be potential viewers.
Moderating Your Cam Room
Most cam sites offer broadcasters, moderators and chat member options to make their experience safer and more fun. Some of these features include silencing, blocking and banning specific viewers from your show who may not be the type of viewers you were hoping for. This includes viewers who are aggressive, argumentative, harassing or bullying.
You have the power to decide who should be watching your shows and also helping protect the cam community from those individuals. You have the power to choose. Many performers use what is called a “moderator,” who can be a big help with not only increasing activity within your room, but can monitor those within the room as well.
Privacy Issues With Third Party Chat Services
When online, you will notice a lot of viewers requesting Skype conversations. While this generally would still seem safe, IP addresses from Skype accounts can be tracked down. It is highly recommended to only stay on secure cam platforms to avoid this type of issue.
If you don’t know, an IP address is similar to an emailing address, and it can provide you with information about a user’s Internet Service Provider (ISP) and location. Some performers have been tempted to broadcast on Skype at the request of viewers.
In doing so, they potentially face being victims of non-payments, cancellation of payments and security issues related to personal location. Most cam sites (like CAM4) have developed tools to protect your location and personal information as discussed earlier.
Some additional security risks when using Skype include the fact that there are no cam-specific tools or technical support at you disposal, and no way to enforce payments if a Skype viewer bails refuses to pay or tip you.
Face to Face Meetups
In some cases, performers will notice viewers mentioning where they are from or in some cases, the city they live in. As your viewership grows and your relationships with fans develop, some performers will garner a bond and receive requests to meet up.
You are your own boss, however, it is very important to ensure your safety is considered, so stick to public places if you choose to do so.
As a webcam performer, always remember, it’s your body, your room and your rules! Everyone is here to have fun, but continue to maintain your safety and protection. We are a strong community, so let’s help protect each other.
Sammy Shayne is a cam model, content creator and head coach for CAM4. She can be followed on SammyStrips.com, CAM4.com/SammyStrips and @SammyStrips on Twitter.
