Cherry

Menu

Safety Tips for Online Dating

When meeting new people online, be curious and cautious. Even if someone is cute, they are still a stranger. Do not trust them immediately or share too much information about yourself; they need to earn your trust. Also, trust your intuition. If something feels “off” or “too good to be true,” it probably is. We encourage you to verify your profile and be more cautious when interacting with non-verified users. 

If you have any concerns about someone’s intentions or behaviour, please do not hesitate to email us at support@cherryflfm.com.

1.1.  Be cautious and do not share sensitive information

  • Do not share sensitive information in chat or on your profile. Meeting new people is exciting, but remember you are talking to a stranger, so be careful with your information. Tip: Do not share anything you wouldn’t want your grandparents, parents, or manager to see. Please wait to meet someone in person and get to know them before sharing sensitive information because until then, you do not know who you are talking to.
  • Do not share your home or work address, social security number, daily routine, usernames, or passwords. If you have children, do not share their age, gender, or full name.
  • Never share your login credentials or use the app on another person’s device.

1.2.  Never share financial information or send money

  • Do not share financial information (e.g., bank account details, credit card information, answers to your security questions, usernames, passwords) or send money to anyone, even if they claim it is an emergency (e.g., they say they are from your country but are stuck abroad, their credit card is declined, they are starting a business). If a match asks for your financial information or money, report their profile and contact us immediately.
  • If someone wants you to open a bank account, investing account, or an account with a service or website they share, please report them and contact us immediately.

1.3.  Report any suspicious behaviour.

This includes but is not limited to:

  • If someone says something concerning, offensive, or mentions doing something illegal.
  • If someone avoids meeting in person, talking on the phone, and/or video calling.
  • If someone wants to enter a serious relationship without meeting and getting to know you.
  • If you suspect a fraudulent or underage profile.
  • If someone is trying to sell you something.
  • If someone has highly edited photos, no photos of themselves, or very few photos in their profile.
  • If someone immediately wants to move the conversation to other channels.
  • If someone seems “too good to be true” or is love bombing, trauma dumping, oversharing, or making you uncomfortable.
  1. OUR TIPS FOR STAYING SAFE IN PERSON

2.1.  Plan Ahead

  • We encourage you to have a video call before meeting in person, as this can help verify the identity of the person you are talking to.
  • Choose a public and busy meeting place. Tip: Meet during daylight and in a public place for at least the first few dates. If your date tries to pressure you into going to a private location, end the date.
  • Before the date, ensure your phone is fully charged and that you have a plan for getting home. Tip: Do not get in your date’s car, and if your date offers to walk you home, decline.
  • Inform a friend or family member about your plans, including the date, time, and location. Please share your location with family or friends on your phone so they know exactly where you are, and tell them when you expect to be home.

2.2.  Avoid Substances

  • We recommend keeping the first few dates substance-free, but if you are drinking alcohol, keep your drinks in sight and only accept beverages served directly by bartenders or servers. Remember, your date should not try to pressure you into taking any substances; please contact a friend and leave the situation if they do.

2.3.  Trust Your Instincts

  • Avoid leaving your personal items unattended, including your phone, purse, and wallet.
  • If you feel uncomfortable or unsafe during a date, it’s perfectly acceptable to end it early.
  • Seek assistance from someone working nearby if necessary.
  • Again, be cautious about how much personal information you share; even if the person is cute, they are still a stranger—getting to know someone takes time.
  1. CONSENT AND SEXUAL HEALTH

3.1.  CONSENT IS KEY!

  • Consent is an ongoing, enthusiastic “yes” to any activity that can be given and withdrawn freely at any time without consequences. Before engaging in any sexual activity, make sure you discuss what you and your partner are and aren’t comfortable with. During sex, verbally communicate, NEVER assume anything, and always check in with each other–especially before and when trying something new. Remember, consent can be withdrawn at any time, and there should never be any pressure placed on someone to have sex or do anything. Do not proceed if your partner seems uncomfortable or unsure or if your partner is unable to consent because of drugs or alcohol. It is always better to reject someone and hurt their feelings in the moment than to do something they might regret.

3.2.  Get Tested for Sexually Transmitted Infections (STIs) and Be Honest

  • Get tested for STIs regularly and be honest about your sexual history and STI status. Before engaging in any sexual activity, ask your partner:
    • When was the last time you were tested? Have you had any sexual partners since then? Do you currently have other sexual partners? Do you have any STIs?
  • If you suspect that you might have an STI, go to a clinic to find out your status, communicate with your partner(s), and always err on the side of caution. If you have an STI, your partner(s) need to know to consent to any sexual activity.

Remember, you can block anyone, anytime, and for any reason and shouldn’t feel guilty for doing so.

Please contact us at support@cherryflfm.com if you have had or are having any negative interactions with someone you have met on Cherry FLFM, or if there is someone who should not be allowed to be on the platform. 

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Cherry FLFM is designed by and for sapphics. I (Julia) drew upon my lived experiences and those around me to create an app with our community at heart. Cherry FLFM isn't just welcoming to sapphics—it’s built with us in mind, ensuring that every interaction reflects our values, needs, and desires. We want to create a space where the features and culture are inherently inclusive and affirming, where users can tell that the app was created for sapphics by sapphics. We know the importance of being in a space where our identities are respected, our pronouns are honoured, and our relationships are validated without question.

We prioritize safety and the user experience. Cherry FLFM uses advanced filtering to allow users to find people they are compatible with based on their priorities and preferences. Additionally, Cherry FLFM differentiates itself from other platforms with its enhanced security measures to prevent bots, catfishing, and inaccurate profile information. All users must complete two-factor verification and are encouraged to undergo photo + government-issued photo ID verification for added security.

In a world where sapphic spaces are often limited and dating apps are superficial, we wanted to create a different kind of app—one that prioritizes users and community over profit. We understand that making friends and dating can be difficult and that meaningful relationships come in various forms. We do not want users to choose between platonic and romantic connections, so instead, we hope to facilitate a safe, inclusive, and diverse space for sapphics to form meaningful relationships however that looks for you. We hope you feel a sense of community and belonging on Cherry FLFM.

This will close in 0 seconds