Dating Safely
Your safety and security are our top priorities. Here are some tips for a safe and positive dating experience.
Protecting Your Personal Information
Be cautious about sharing personal details too quickly. This includes your home or work address, details about your daily routine, or financial information. Get to know someone through our platform before sharing more private contact details like your phone number or social media profiles.
Online Communication
Keep conversations on the dating platform initially. People with bad intentions often try to move the conversation to text, messaging apps, email, or phone right away. This protects you from potential scams and keeps a record of communication. Be wary of anyone who sends suspicious links or attachments.
Video Chat Before You Meet
Before meeting in person, consider having a video chat. This is a great way to verify that the person matches their profile photos and to get a better sense of their personality. It’s a simple safety step that can prevent catfishing and help you feel more comfortable before an in-person date.
First Meetings
Always meet in a public place for the first few dates. Choose a familiar, well-lit location where you feel comfortable, like a busy coffee shop or restaurant. Avoid meeting at their home, your home, or any other private location. Inform a friend or family member about your plans, including where you're going, who you're meeting, and when you expect to be back.
Arrange Your Own Transportation
Maintain control over your own transportation to and from the date. This ensures you can leave whenever you want to, without having to rely on your date for a ride. Even if they offer, it's safer to arrange your own way there and back for the first few meetings.
Stay Sober
While a drink might help calm the nerves, it's wise to stay sober or limit your alcohol consumption on the first few dates. Keeping a clear head allows you to stay aware of your surroundings and make better judgments.
Trust Your Instincts
If something feels off, it probably is. Your intuition is a powerful tool. Don't feel obligated to continue a conversation, respond to a message, or go on a date if you feel uncomfortable or unsafe for any reason. If someone's behavior is raising alarm bells, it's okay to end the interaction politely and leave.
Recognizing Red Flags
- Pressuring you for personal information early on.
- Avoiding questions or providing vague, inconsistent answers.
- Professing strong feelings immediately, without getting to know you (love bombing).
- Requesting money, gifts, or financial help for any reason. This is a major red flag for scams.
- Disrespectful behavior towards you, service staff, or others.
- Attempting to isolate you from your friends and family.
- Making you feel guilty for setting boundaries.
Never Send Money
Legitimate daters will never ask you for financial assistance. Be extremely wary of any requests for money, no matter how convincing or sob story they tell. This includes requests for travel expenses, medical emergencies, or business investments. Report any user who asks for money immediately.
Have an Exit Strategy
For in-person meetings, it can be helpful to have an exit plan in mind. You could mention you have another engagement later in the day, or arrange for a friend to call you at a certain time to "check in." This gives you a natural reason to end the date if you're not feeling comfortable.
Reporting Concerns
If you encounter any suspicious profiles or behavior that violates our community guidelines, please report it to us immediately. Your reports help us maintain a safe and respectful community for everyone. Provide as much detail as possible so we can take appropriate action.
After the Date
Check in with your friend or family member to let them know you are safe. If you felt uncomfortable during the date, you are not obligated to go on another one. Your comfort and safety are the most important things.
