Stay Safe Online
Your safety is our priority. Follow these guidelines when connecting with people online.
Important: PJmatch does not conduct background checks or verify member identities. You are solely responsible for your interactions with other members, online and in person, and you meet anyone at your own risk. See our Disclaimer and Terms of Use. If you are in immediate danger, call 911.
Never Send Money
This is the most important rule:
- Never send money to anyone you meet online, no matter how convincing their story is
- Scammers often create elaborate stories about emergencies, travel problems, or business deals
- They may claim to need money for medical bills, plane tickets, or customs fees
- If someone asks for money, stop all contact immediately and report them
- Never share your banking details, credit card numbers, or financial information
- Be wary of anyone who refuses to video chat but asks for financial help
⚠️ If it feels too good to be true, it probably is. Romance scammers are experts at building emotional connections before asking for money.
Protect Your Personal Information
- Never share your home address until you know someone well
- Keep your workplace location private initially
- Don't share financial information (bank accounts, credit cards, social security)
- Be cautious about sharing your phone number too early
- Avoid sharing photos of your ID, passport, or documents
- Don't reveal information about your daily routine or schedule
Meeting In Person
- Always meet in a public place for your first several dates
- Choose well-lit, busy locations like cafes, restaurants, or malls
- Tell a friend or family member where you're going and who you're meeting
- Share your date's profile and contact info with someone you trust
- Arrange your own transportation - don't rely on your date
- Stay sober and alert - don't drink too much on first meetings
- Trust your instincts - if something feels wrong, leave
- Have a backup plan and a way to leave if needed
Verify Before Meeting
- Video chat before meeting in person to verify identity
- Be suspicious if they always have excuses to avoid video calls
- Reverse image search their photos to check if they're stolen
- Check their social media profiles for consistency
- Be wary of profiles with very few photos or vague information
- Notice red flags like inconsistent stories or details
Safe Communication
- Use the platform's messaging system before sharing personal contact info
- Don't click on suspicious links sent in messages
- Be wary of people who quickly want to move off the platform
- Block and report anyone who makes you uncomfortable
- Don't share intimate photos - they can be used for blackmail
- Trust your gut - if conversations feel "off," they probably are
Warning Signs to Watch For
- They declare love very quickly ("love bombing")
- They can never meet in person or video chat
- They ask for money or financial assistance
- Their story has inconsistencies or changes over time
- They pressure you to move fast or make quick decisions
- They claim to be military, doctors abroad, or oil rig workers
- They want you to keep the relationship secret
- They have a "too perfect" profile with professional photos
- They get angry or manipulative when you set boundaries
Report Suspicious Behavior
- Report suspicious profiles to us immediately
- If you've been scammed, contact your local police
- Report financial fraud to your bank and credit card company
- You can report romance scams to the FTC at reportfraud.ftc.gov
- Don't be embarrassed - scammers are professionals at manipulation
Our Community Pledge
Every member of our community agrees to:
- Be real - Use honest photos and information
- Be kind - Treat others with respect and compassion
- Be respectful - Accept "no" gracefully and respect boundaries
- Be safe - Follow these safety guidelines and report concerns