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Dating Safety

Safe Dating Tips

Meeting new people is exciting, but it’s crucial to stay cautious when interacting with a stranger. Use your best judgement and prioritise your safety, whether you’re exchanging initial messages or meeting in person. While you can’t control others’ actions, there are steps you can take to ensure a safer dating experience on Mattr.

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Online Safety

Never transfer funds or share financial details 

Never send money or share financial details, especially if the person claims to be in an emergency. Sending money via wire transfer is like sending cash—it’s nearly impossible to reverse or trace. If someone asks for money, report them immediately. For more tips on avoiding romance scams, visit the U.S. Federal Trade Commission's website.

Crimestoppers Romance Fraud website.

Protect your personal information 

Avoid sharing personal details such as your full name, home or work address, or daily routine (e.g., visiting a specific coffee shop every Tuesday) with people you don’t know. If you’re a parent, limit the information you share about your children, including their names, schools, ages, or genders.

Stay on Mattr 

Keep conversations within the Mattr app while you’re getting to know someone. If you require support, it is easier for us to investigate and help. Users with bad intentions often try to quickly move the conversation to other platforms.

Be wary of long-distance and overseas relationships 

Scammers often claim to be from your country but are stuck elsewhere and ask for financial help. Be cautious of anyone who avoids meeting in person or talking via phone/video call.

Report suspicious and offensive behaviour 

Block and report anyone violating Mattr’s terms, such as:

  • Asking for money or donations
  • Users who are underage
  • Harassment, threats, or offensive messages
  • Inappropriate or harmful conduct during or after meeting in person
  • Fake profiles
  • Spam or solicitations, including links to commercial sites or attempts to sell products or services

You can report concerns from any profile page, messaging window, or by emailing help@mattr.social. By reporting those who break Mattr’s terms, you’re helping the rest of the community!

Protect your account

Use a strong password and be cautious when logging into your account from public or shared computers. Mattr will never ask for your username and password via email. Report any suspicious emails immediately. Do not share your SMS verification code with anyone.

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Meeting in person

Don’t rush 

Take your time getting to know the other person before meeting or chatting off Mattr. Use phone or video calls as a preliminary screening tool.

Meet in public and stay in public 

Choose public, populated places for your first few meetings. If your date pressures you to go to a private location, end the date.

Inform friends and family 

Tell a friend or family member about your plans, including where you’re going and when. Keep your phone charged and with you at all times.

Control your transportation 

Ensure you have control over how you arrive and leave the date. Consider having a backup plan, such as a ride-share app or a friend to pick you up.

Know your limits 

Be aware of how drugs or alcohol affect you—they can impair judgement. If your date pressures you to use drugs or drink excessively, hold your ground and consider ending the date.

Don’t leave drinks or personal items unattended 

Only accept drinks directly from the bartender or server. Many substances used to facilitate assault are odourless and tasteless. Keep your personal items, like your phone and wallet, with you at all times.

Leave if uncomfortable 

It’s okay to end the date early if you feel uncomfortable. Trust your instincts and seek help from staff if needed.

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LGBTQ+ travel

Exercise caution while travelling 

Be aware of local laws regarding LGBTQ+ individuals when travelling. Some countries have laws targeting LGBTQ+ people, and law enforcement may use dating apps for entrapment. Check ILGA World for the latest information on sexual orientation laws by country and consider donating to support their research.

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Sexual health & consent

Protect yourself 

Using condoms correctly can reduce the risk of STIs like HIV. Be aware of STIs that can spread through skin-to-skin contact and consider vaccination for additional protection.

Know your status 

Regular testing is crucial as not all STIs show symptoms. Stay informed about your health and prevent the spread of STIs.

Communicate openly 

Discuss sexual health and STI testing with your partner before becoming intimate. In some places, knowingly passing on an STI is a crime.

Understand consent 

All sexual activity must begin with consent and include ongoing check-ins. Consent can be withdrawn at any time, and no one is owed sex. Avoid proceeding if your partner seems unsure or impaired by drugs or alcohol.

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Resources for help, support, or advice

Even with these precautions, no method is foolproof. If you have a negative experience, it’s not your fault, and help is available. Report any incidents and consider reaching out to the following resources:

Trans Lifeline: 0300 330 5468

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