Dating Safety Tips

Meeting new people is exciting, but you should always prioritize your safety. Whether you're chatting online or meeting in person, make smart choices to protect yourself.

Online Safety

  • Never Send Money or Share Financial Information

    Never send money to someone you've only met online, especially via wire transfer, gift cards, or cryptocurrency. These methods are hard to trace and are a common tactic in scams. iMatch will never ask you to send money to another user.

  • Protect Your Personal Information

    Avoid sharing your address, workplace, daily routines, or social security number with strangers. Keep sensitive data private to protect your identity and safety.

  • Stay on the Platform

    Communicate within iMatch until you feel comfortable. Scammers often try to move conversations to external apps like WhatsApp or email where monitoring is more difficult.

  • Watch Out for Long-Distance and Overseas Scams

    Be cautious if someone claims to be nearby but stuck abroad and asks for help returning. Avoid anyone who refuses to meet or call after extended communication.

  • Report and block anyone who violates our rules. This helps keep our community safe. Examples of violations include:

    • Requests for money or donations
    • Underage users (under 18)
    • Harassment, threats, or hate speech
    • Fake profiles or impersonation
    • Spam or commercial solicitation

  • Protect Your Account

    Use a unique and secure password. Enable two-factor authentication if available. Never share your login credentials, and avoid logging in from public computers.

Meeting in Person

  • Don’t Be in a Rush

    Take your time to get to know someone before meeting. Consider doing a phone or video call first to verify their identity.

  • Meet in Public and Stay in Public

    Choose a well-lit, public place for the first few meetings, like a café or park. Never go to a private home or secluded area.

  • Tell Someone Your Plans

    Share your meeting details with a trusted friend or family member, including the time, place, and who you're meeting.

  • Control Your Transportation

    Use your own transportation or a ride-share app to ensure you can leave whenever you feel uncomfortable.

  • Know Your Limits

    Don’t allow anyone to pressure you into drinking or using substances. Know your boundaries and stick to them.

  • Watch Your Belongings

    Keep your phone, wallet, and drink with you at all times. Don't leave anything unattended.

  • Leave If Uncomfortable

    Trust your instincts. If something feels off, it’s okay to end the date early and leave.

Sexual Health & Consent

  • Protect Yourself

    Use protection such as condoms to reduce the risk of STIs. Remember, some STIs like HPV or herpes can spread through skin contact even with protection.

  • Know Your Status

    Get tested regularly even if you don’t have symptoms. Many STIs are asymptomatic.

  • Talk About It

    Have an open conversation with your partner about sexual health and STI testing before becoming intimate.

  • Consent

    Consent must be clear, enthusiastic, and ongoing. It can be withdrawn at any time. Never proceed if your partner seems unsure or is under the influence.

Resources for Support

No matter what you've experienced, support is available. Below are some hotlines and organizations you can contact for help, guidance, or emergency assistance.