Meeting new people can be exciting, but it's important to stay mindful and prioritise your safety when connecting with someone new. Trust your instincts and exercise caution, whether you're chatting online or planning to meet in person. While you can’t control others' actions, you can take steps to protect yourself and ensure a safer experience on Real Affairs.
• Protect Your Financial Information
Avoid sending money to anyone, especially through wire transfers, even if they claim to be in an emergency. Once sent, these transactions are nearly impossible to reverse or trace. Also, never share sensitive financial information that could grant access to your accounts. If someone requests money from you, report it to us immediately. Your security comes first.
• Protect Your Personal Data
Never share personal information, such as your home or work address, or details about your usual daily routine with people you don't know or trust. If you have children limit the information that you share about them on your profile and in early interactions. Avoid sharing details such as your children's names, where they go to school, or their ages or genders.
• Don't Be Talked Into Leaving the Platform
Keep conversations on the Real Affairs while you're getting to know someone. Users with bad intentions often try to move the conversation to phone, text, messaging apps or email straight away so that there is no record of their conversations and behaviour.
• Be Cautious of Long Distance Relationships
Be cautious of scammers who claim to be from your country but say they're stranded elsewhere, especially if they ask for financial assistance to return home. Be wary of anyone who refuses to meet in person or avoids phone or video calls—they may not be who they claim to be. If someone dodges your questions or rushes into a serious relationship without truly getting to know you, consider it a red flag.
• Report Any Suspicious or Illegal Activity
Block and report anyone that violates our terms and conditions. For example:
- Underage members
- Anyone asking you for money
- Offensive or threatening behaviour or comments
- Fraudulent activity
- Spamming or selling
• Dont Rush Into Anything
Take your time getting to know someone before agreeing to meet or move your conversation off Real Affairs. Don't hesitate to ask questions to identify any red flags or personal dealbreakers. A phone or video call can be a great way to gauge their authenticity before meeting in person.
• Always Meet in a Public Place
This probably sounds obvious but always meet for the first few times in a public place. It's never a good idea to meet at your home or your date's home, or any other private place. If your date pressures you to go to a private location, don't take any chances and just end the date.
• Tell Friends or Family About Your Date Plans
It's always a good idea to tell a friend or family member of your date plans, including when you are meeting and where you are planning to meet. Obviously having a phone with you is a must.
• Plan Your Transportation
When it comes going to and getting home from your date make sure you have a plan. Make sure you have a way of being able to leave the date whenever you want. If you're not driving make sure you have a taxi number, a ride app or a friend on hand to pick you up.
• Never Leave Your Drinks or Personal Items Unattended
Always keep an eye on your drink and only accept beverages directly from a bartender or server—never from a stranger. Many substances used to tamper with drinks are undetectable, making it crucial to stay vigilant. Additionally, keep your phone, purse, wallet, and any items containing personal information with you at all times to protect your privacy and safety.
• • If You Feel Uncomfortable For Any Reason Just Leave
If you ever feel uncomfortable, it's absolutely okay to end the date early—in fact, it's encouraged. Trust your instincts; if something feels off or you feel unsafe, don’t hesitate to seek help from a bartender, server, or someone nearby. Your well-being always comes first.
