Grant the device access you intend to use.

Two layers

The browser and operating system can both say no

A site can have permission in Chrome, Firefox or Safari while the operating system blocks the entire browser from the camera. The reverse can also happen: the operating system allows the browser, but the site is saved as blocked. Check both layers before concluding that a device is broken.

Work and school devices may be managed by an administrator. In that case, a setting can be visible but unavailable. Do not install an unknown extension or configuration profile to bypass a managed restriction.

Site permission

Controls whether this domain may ask for or use the device in that browser.

Browser app permission

Controls whether the operating system lets the browser reach the device.

Conversation consent

Controls what you choose to show or discuss with another person.

Minimize exposure

A working camera can still show too much

Check the frame for mail, work badges, school names, family photographs and windows that reveal a location. Headphones can prevent nearby people from hearing a voice conversation. Background blur can help, but it may fail around edges or reflective objects.

Permission does not prevent the other participant from using another device to record. Avoid showing anything you could not tolerate being copied. Leave if someone treats turning on a camera as proof you owe them.

• Choose text for no camera or microphone access.
• Choose voice when tone matters but the room should remain private.
• Choose video only after checking the frame and your comfort.
• Clear saved permission when you want the browser to ask again.

Claims we avoid

A padlock does not answer every privacy question

HTTPS protects the connection between the browser and site in transit, but it does not by itself describe retention, moderation access, recording, screenshots or another participant’s behaviour. Those questions require a current privacy policy and product-specific evidence.

SoMatch.me does not claim end-to-end encryption here. Read the live privacy policy before sharing sensitive information, and keep early conversations low in identifying detail.