After the stress of finals, it’s safe to say most of us were looking forward to a relaxing winter break. Once the holiday rush and New Year’s parties were over, however, we came to find that home got real boring, real fast. The month off from school gave us time to try anything and everything to pique our interests — like shopping, TV shows, work or, in my case, Chatroulette.

The dangers of the Internet are common knowledge; we all know how easy it is nowadays for hackers — and perverts — to learn every aspect about a person’s life. On the other hand, we have become a society intrigued by only the newest and fastest forms of communication. When these two were put together, Chatroulette was born.

In short, the Web site is a place where people from all over the world can talk to each other via webcam. There is complete anonymity; no login or username is required. You can click “next” if you grow tired of your current chat partner. Any other information you decide to give out is up to you.

In this era of instantaneous communication, it isn’t hard to believe that such a Web site exists. Anonymous sites have always been popular and it’s becoming very rare to find someone whose computer doesn’t have a webcam.

Some people show their faces, others choose to conceal their faces by covering their camera, but the most popular form of visual presentation, particularly for males, seems to be the unclothed lower body. Sounds PG enough, right?

The site is actually very entertaining but has its downfalls, of course. However, I’m going to go out on a limb here and assume that Binghamton University students who go on this site do not do it to watch 40-year-old men stroke their cats, among other things.

As I have experienced the wonder that is Chatroulette, I can provide a general description of the people who you might find yourself talking to. Some are from different countries, yet speak English well enough to type it and hold a conversation. Some people just put up signs saying “Flash ‘Em!” Some aren’t even old enough to drive, but don’t hesitate to say they’re 18.

One thing I can promise you, though, is that after about 15 minutes, you will see more male genitalia than most people do in a lifetime. Aside from the many who are less than fully clothed, you will find a few kids just trying to have fun (it may take a while). I’m not saying they’ll all be normal, but it’s better than watching old nude guys.

So when you and your friends stumble across a cute, age-appropriate Chatroulette-er, don’t be fooled. There’s a reason he or she is on this Web site alone. And if ever you find yourself bored in your dorm and get a little curious, save yourself from the ridicule of seeing your friends on the other screen. Don’t be that guy … or girl.