Keeping you safe on Stir

How we keep it real and safe on Stir

At Stir, we’re not afraid to play it safe  — especially when it means keeping you in control. Whether you’re a seasoned dating app user or new to online dating, here are some of the ways we’re committed to keeping it real and safe every step of the way.

Your safety tools

We designed these tools to help take control of your online dating journey.

• Background checks have your back.
  Whether you just matched or are getting ready to meet in person, run a free background check with Garbo to gain peace of mind. To learn more about Garbo and their frequently asked questions, click here.
• Lean on our RAINN partnership.
  We’ve partnered with RAINN (Rape, Abuse & Incest National Network), the nation's largest anti-sexual violence organization, to improve our reporting, safety, and messaging features. Access RAINN and other support resources from our Safety Center.
• Report your concerns (and be heard by real people like you).
  If you see something, say something: Anyone can report an inappropriate user or activity that violates our Community Guidelines. Our team reviews every issue reported by our members so that we can take the right steps to solve each one.

Other safety tips

• Keep your convos on Stir as long as possible.
  Get to know new matches where you’re most protected: The app. Think of moving your conversation to another place (such as texting) as a next step. If your match wants to move platforms but doesn’t want to meet up or video call, that’s a red flag.
• Never, ever exchange money with someone you’ve only met online.
  That goes for any form of money: Wire transfers, money orders, currency exchanges, gift cards, investments. No reason’s strong enough to swap funds with strangers.
• Don’t fall for false promises.
  Be skeptical of anyone who wants to teach you how to invest or win big.
• Don’t let anyone play your heart strings.
  Scammers like to guilt victims into sending money by creating false emergencies: Visa, custom fees, surgeries, family medical bills, car repairs, or plane tickets to visit you. As a general rule, view urgency or desperation as a red flag, especially when money’s involved.
• Keep your guard up.
  Scammers know you’re wary of them — so their methods are never identical. Often, they don’t mention finances until weeks or months after they’ve gained your trust.
• Follow your best judgment.
  Whenever you interact with someone you don’t know, trust your gut. Always put yourself first: You know your own boundaries better than anyone else.

For more safety tools and tips, visit our Safety Center or explore our safety articles.