Dating Safety

1. Get to Know Them Online First

• Chat for a while before agreeing to meet in person
• Look for inconsistencies in their stories or photos
• Be wary if they refuse video calls or only want to chat at odd hours
• Trust your instincts - if something feels off, it probably is

2. Verify Their Identity

• Look for verified profiles (photo verified badge)
• Do a quick Google search or social media check
• Ask for a video chat before meeting - this confirms they are who they say they are
• Be suspicious of profiles with only professional photos

3. Never Send Money

• Never send money to someone you haven't met in person
• Be wary of sob stories or urgent financial requests
• Scammers often claim to be in the military, overseas, or have sudden emergencies
• Report anyone asking for money immediately

4. Protect Your Privacy

• Don't share your full name, address, or workplace until you trust them
• Use the in-app messaging - don't give out your phone number right away
• Be careful what's visible in your photos (house numbers, workplace logos, etc.)
• Consider using a Google Voice number instead of your real number

1. Meet in Public

• Always meet in a public place for the first few dates
• Choose busy venues like cafes, restaurants, or shopping centres
• Avoid secluded areas, private homes, or deserted locations
• Stay in well-lit areas if meeting in the evening

2. Tell Someone Your Plans

• Tell a friend or family member where you're going, who you're meeting, and when
• Share your live location with a trusted person
• Arrange to check in with them during and after the date
• Have a code word to signal if you need help

3. Arrange Your Own Transport

• Drive yourself, take public transport, or use a rideshare app
• Don't let your date pick you up from home for the first few dates
• Don't get in a car with someone you've just met
• Keep your phone charged and have emergency numbers saved

4. Stay Sober and Alert

• Limit alcohol consumption so you can stay aware of your surroundings
• Never leave your drink unattended
• Watch your drink being made and served
• If you feel unusually drunk or unwell, get help immediately

5. Trust Your Instincts

• If something feels wrong, leave - you don't owe anyone an explanation
• It's okay to end a date early if you're uncomfortable
• Have an exit strategy ready (a friend who can "call with an emergency")
• Your safety is more important than being polite

Consent is Essential

• Consent must be freely given, reversible, informed, enthusiastic, and specific
• Check in with your partner - "Is this okay?" goes a long way
• Anyone can change their mind at any time - respect that
• Silence or hesitation is not consent
• Being in a relationship doesn't mean automatic consent

Protect Your Health

• Use protection - condoms and dental dams help prevent STIs
• Get tested regularly if you're sexually active with multiple partners
• Discuss sexual health openly with your partners
• Don't be pressured into unprotected sex

Meeting at Private Locations

• Only go to someone's home after you've built trust through public meetings
• Share the address with a trusted friend before you go
• Have a check-in time arranged
• Consider meeting at a hotel instead of a private home
• Make sure you can leave if you want to

Report Bad Behaviour

Help keep the community safe by reporting:

• Harassment, abuse, or threatening messages
• Fake profiles or catfishing
• Scams or requests for money
• Inappropriate or illegal content
• Anyone who makes you feel unsafe

Use the Report button on any profile or message. We review all reports and take action.

Australian Support Services

• 1800 RESPECT - Sexual assault, domestic violence1800 737 732
• Lifeline - Crisis support13 11 14
• Beyond Blue - Mental health support1300 22 4636
• Crime Stoppers - Report crime anonymously1800 333 000
• QLife - LGBTIQ+ support1800 184 527