Safety Tips
Safeguarding your personal information
We understand that meeting new people can be exhilarating, but it's important to prioritize your safety when interacting with strangers, whether you're just starting to chat or planning to meet in person.
While we can't guarantee the actions of others, we offer some helpful tips to help you stay safe while using Orthodate.
It's important to take precautions when interacting with people you don't know, especially on Orthodate. Your safety should always come first. Here are some tips to help keep you safe:
- Do not send money or share financial information. Never wire money or share information that could be used to access your financial accounts. If someone asks you for money, report it to us immediately.
- Protect your personal information. Avoid sharing your home or work address, and details about your daily routine with strangers. If you are a parent, be careful about sharing information about your children on your profile or in early conversations.
- Protect your account. Choose a strong password and be careful when logging into your account from a public or shared computer. Remember that Orthodate will never ask for your username and password information via email. If you receive an email asking for account information, report it immediately.
- Maintain the security of your account when utilizing a public or shared computer by remaining attentive to your environment, thereby thwarting any attempts by others to observe or capture your password and other sensitive personal information.
- Stay on the Orthodate platform. Keep your conversations on Orthodate while you're getting to know someone. Be wary of anyone who tries to move the conversation to text, messaging apps, email, or phone right away.
Meeting in person
It's important to take your time and get to know the other person before agreeing to meet or chat off Orthodate. Don't rush things, and don't be afraid to ask questions to screen for any red flags or personal dealbreakers. The following safety tips may be of use:
- A phone or video call can be a helpful screening tool before meeting in person.
- When meeting someone for the first time, it's important to choose a populated and public place, such as a coffee shop or restaurant. Never agree to meet at your home, your date's home, or any other private location. If your date insists on going to a private location, it's best to end the date and leave.
- Before meeting someone for a date, it's important to let a trusted friend or family member know your plans, such as where and when you'll be meeting. Also, make sure your mobile phone is fully charged and with you at all times.
- It is best if you have control over your transportation to and from your date, so you can leave whenever you feel the need. If you plan on driving yourself, it's always wise to have a backup plan in place, such as a ride-share app or a friend who can pick you up.
- It's important to be mindful of how drugs or alcohol affect you personally, as they can impair your judgment and alertness. If your date attempts to pressure you into consuming drugs or drinking more than you're comfortable with, it's important to stand your ground and end the date.
- Remain vigilant about your drinks and their whereabouts. Only accept beverages that have been directly poured or served by the bartender or server, and keep track of them. It's essential to understand that many substances used in sexual assault can be colourless, odourless, and tasteless. In addition, ensure that your phone, purse, wallet, and any items with personal information remain with you all the time.
- You should never hesitate to end the date early if you feel uneasy or uncomfortable. In fact, we encourage you to trust your instincts and take action if you sense that something is not right. If you feel unsafe, don't hesitate to ask for assistance from the bartender or server.
Sexual health
When used correctly and consistently, condoms can greatly reduce the risk of contracting and transmitting sexually transmitted infections (STIs) like HIV. However, it is important to note that some STIs, such as herpes and HPV, can be transmitted through skin-to-skin contact.
It's important to be aware of your sexual health status as not all sexually transmitted infections (STIs) exhibit symptoms. To prevent the spread of STIs, it's recommended to get tested regularly and stay up-to-date on your health.
Obtaining consent
Effective communication is key. Before engaging in sexual activity with a partner, have an open and honest discussion about sexual health and STI testing. It's important to be aware that in some places, it's considered a criminal offense to knowingly transmit an STI. Stay informed and have the conversation.
Before engaging in any sexual activity, it is essential to obtain consent from your partner and continue to check in with them throughout the experience. Verbal communication can assist in ensuring that both partners respect each other's boundaries.
It is important to note that consent can be withdrawn at any time and that sex is never an obligation. Do not proceed if your partner seems uncomfortable, unsure, or is unable to consent due to the influence of drugs or alcohol.
Reporting offensive or inappropriate behaviour
Report any suspicious or offensive behaviour. Watch out for scammers who claim to be from your country but are stuck somewhere else and need financial help to return home. Also be wary of anyone who refuses to meet in person or talk on the phone or video call.
Block and report anyone who violates our terms. Examples of violations include requests for money or donations, underage users, harassment or threats, inappropriate or harmful behaviour during or after meeting in person, fraudulent profiles, and spam or solicitation. You can report any concerns about suspicious behaviour from any profile page or messaging window.
Additional resources
Keep in mind that while these suggestions can help reduce the risk of negative experiences, no approach is entirely foolproof. If you are in an emergency, please contact the police at 000, and report any incidents to Orthodate.
If you experience any negative incidents, please be aware that it is not your fault and that support is available. You can contact Orthodate via email
Or: the following resources may be of use if you require additional assistance:
Lifeline
Phone: 13 11 14
Website: https://www.lifeline.org.au/
Sexual assault or domestic violence
Phone: 1800 737 732
Website: www.1800respect.org.au
Human trafficking
Phone: 131237
Website: https://forms.afp.gov.au/
Online fraud or cybercrime
Phone: 1300 292 371