Meeting Safety Tips

Meeting new people is exciting, but it's crucial to be cautious when communicating with someone you don't know. Use your best judgment and prioritize your safety during initial online messaging or in-person meetings. While you can't control the actions of others, there are things you can do to help ensure your safety during your Vite experience.

Online Safety

Never Send Money or Share Financial Information, ever send money, especially via bank transfer, even if the person claims to be in an emergency. Making a bank transfer is like sending cash—reversing the transaction or tracking where the money went is nearly impossible. Never share information that could be used to access your financial accounts. If someone asks you for money, report them immediately.

For tips on avoiding romance scams, check out some advice from the U.S. Federal Trade Commission on their website.

Protect Your Personal Information, Never share personal information with people you don't know, such as your social security number, home or work address, or details about your daily routine (e.g., going to a specific gym every Monday). If you're a parent, limit the information you share about your children in your profile and early communication. Avoid sharing details like your children's names, where they go to school, their ages, or genders.

Stay on the Platform

While getting to know someone, keep conversations within the Vite platform. Malicious users often try to move the conversation to SMS, messaging apps, email, or phone calls.

Be Cautious About Long-Distance and International Relationships

Be cautious of individuals claiming to be from your country but stuck somewhere else, especially if they ask for financial help to return home. Be wary of people who refuse to answer your questions or push for a serious relationship before meeting you or getting to know you—this could be a red flag.

Report All Suspicious and Disturbing Behavior

If someone crosses a line, let us know immediately. Block and report anyone who violates our terms. Some examples of violations include:

  • Asking you for money or donations
  • Requesting photographs
  • Minors using the platform
  • Users sending harassing or offensive messages
  • Users behaving inappropriately after meeting in person
  • Fraudulent profiles
  • Spam or solicitation, including links to commercial websites or attempts to sell products or services

Report concerns about suspicious behavior through any profile page or the message window here. For more information, review our Community Guidelines.

Protect Your Account

Ensure you have a strong password and always be cautious when logging into your account, especially from a shared or public computer. Vite will never send you an email asking for your username and password—if you receive such an email, report it immediately.

In-Person Meetings

Before agreeing to meet or chat outside of Vite, take the time to get to know the person. Don't hesitate to ask questions about any red flags or reasons that make you uncomfortable. A phone or video call can be a useful screening tool before a meeting.

Meet in Public Places and Stay There

For the first few meetings, choose crowded, public places—never meet at your home, their home, or any other private location. If someone insists on going to a private place, end the date.

Inform Friends and Family of Your Plans

Tell a friend or family member about your plans, including when and where you'll be. Keep your phone charged and with you at all times.

Control Your Transportation

Ensure you have control over how you'll get to and from the meeting. If you're driving, consider having a backup plan, such as a rideshare app or a friend who can pick you up.

Know Your Limits

Be aware of the effects of drugs or alcohol on your decision-making and alertness—they can impair your judgment. If your date pressures you to use drugs or consume more alcohol than you're comfortable with, step back and end the date.

Don't Leave Drinks or Personal Items Unattended

Know where your drinks come from and only accept drinks directly from the bartender or server. Many substances that can facilitate sexual assault are odorless, colorless, and tasteless. Always keep your phone, bag, wallet, and anything containing personal information with you.

Trust Your Instincts, Leave if Uncomfortable

If you feel uncomfortable, it's okay to end the date early. In fact, it's encouraged. If your instincts tell you something is wrong or you feel unsafe, ask a bartender or server for help.

Don't Hesitate to Report Someone

If you're in immediate danger or feel unsafe, contact your local law enforcement agency. If you want to report someone who's behavior is abusive or who makes you uncomfortable, report their profile to us immediately. For more information, review our Community Guidelines.

For more information on personal safety online, check out these resources:

  • WiredSafety
  • Get Safe Online
  • Internet Society
  • NetSmartz
  • OnGuard Online
  • Stay Safe Online
  • WiredTrust