Safety Tips

Before You Meet

Stay on the Platform

Keep your conversations within Vine until you feel comfortable. Our messaging system helps us monitor for inappropriate behavior and protect you.

Protect Your Personal Information

• Don't share your home or work address
• Avoid sharing financial information
• Be cautious about sharing your full name, phone number, or social media handles early on
• Consider using a Google Voice number instead of your real phone number

Video Chat First

Our 15-second intro videos help verify authenticity, but consider having a longer video call before meeting in person. This helps confirm they are who they claim to be.

Do Your Research

• Search their name online
• Check their social media if they share it
• Trust your instincts—if something feels off, it probably is

Meeting in Person

Choose Public Places

For your first several dates, meet in busy, public locations like coffee shops, restaurants, or popular parks. Avoid isolated areas and don't invite them to your home.

Tell Someone Your Plans

• Share your date details with a trusted friend or family member
• Include the person's name, photo, and where you're meeting
• Check in with your friend during or after the date
• Consider using a safety app that can share your location

Arrange Your Own Transportation

Drive yourself, use rideshare, or take public transportation. Don't depend on your date for a ride, especially on the first few dates. This ensures you can leave whenever you want.

Stay Sober

Keep a clear head by limiting alcohol consumption. Never leave your drink unattended, and be aware of your surroundings.

Red Flags to Watch For

Warning Signs

• Requests for money: Never send money to someone you haven't met in person
• Inconsistent stories: Details that don't add up or change over time
• Refusing to video chat: They may not be who they claim to be
• Pressure to move quickly: Rushing intimacy or commitment
• Avoiding questions: Deflecting when asked basic questions about themselves
• Controlling behavior: Getting angry when you set boundaries
• Love bombing: Excessive flattery and intense attention very early on

Common Scams

• Romance scams: Building trust then asking for money for "emergencies"
• Catfishing: Using fake photos or pretending to be someone else
• Investment scams: Pushing cryptocurrency or other "investment opportunities"
• Blackmail: Threatening to share intimate content

Reporting & Getting Help

Report Suspicious Behavior

If someone makes you uncomfortable, you can:

• Block: Immediately prevents all contact
• Report: Our team reviews reports within 4 hours
• Unmatch: End the connection and remove the conversation

You don't need to explain yourself—your safety comes first.

Emergency Resources

• Emergency: Call 911 (or your local emergency number)
• National Domestic Violence Hotline: 1-800-799-7233
• RAINN (Sexual Assault): 1-800-656-4673
• Crisis Text Line: Text HOME to 741741

Contact Vine Safety Team

For safety concerns or to report issues:
Email: vine@appsbay.org
We respond to safety reports within 4 hours.

Our Safety Features

Vine is designed with your safety in mind:

• ID Verification: All users must verify their identity
• Video Intros: See the real person before matching
• Women Choose First: Men cannot message without mutual interest
• No Social Media Required: Your accounts stay private
• Content Moderation: AI and human review of all photos and videos
• Quick Blocking: One tap to remove anyone from your experience
• 4-Hour Response: Rapid review of all safety reports