Safety Guidelines
Poker Date, as a gaming and dating platform, serves to connect individuals globally, sparking new relationships and promoting cultural exchange. Our purpose is to facilitate love connections in all their various forms. The joy we derive from successfully creating friendships and love connections motivates us to maintain our platform as a safe, inviting space.
While the thrill of meeting new individuals is exciting, it's crucial to exercise caution when interacting with unknown people. We prioritize our members' safety and have a dedicated team continuously moderating all profiles, photos, and language on the platform. We maintain our platform to the highest standards to ensure your privacy and security. We won't hesitate to take action when someone violates our rules - we're committed to safeguarding you!
Nevertheless, it's important to remember that online safety also lies in your hands. So, buckle up, and take a moment to read through the following safety instructions. Whether you're exchanging initial messages or meeting in person, always prioritize your safety and use your best judgment. While the actions of others are out of your control, there are measures you can take to ensure your safety during your Poker Date experience.
Online Safety: Here are some tips to help protect yourself from potentially harmful individuals:
- Trust Your Instincts: Your instincts serve as a powerful tool for decision-making. If something doesn't feel right, it likely isn't.
- Remain on the Platform: Until you get to know your match better, keep your conversations on the Poker Date platform. People with malicious intentions often attempt to move the conversation to other platforms immediately.
- Protect Personal Information: Avoid sharing personal information like social security number, residential or work address, or details about your daily routine. For parents, limit the information about your children shared on your profile and in early communications.
- Avoid Financial Transactions: Never send money or share financial information. Be cautious of anyone unwilling to meet in person or communicate over a phone/video call. If someone avoids your questions or pushes for a serious relationship without proper acquaintance, that's a red flag.
- Report Suspicious and Offensive Behaviour: If someone violates our terms, let us know. You can report any suspicious behaviour to support@pokerdate.net.
Meeting Offline:
- Don’t Rush: Spend enough time to get to know the other person. Ask questions to screen for any potential red flags or deal breakers. A phone or video call can be a useful screening tool before meeting.
- Public Meetings: Always choose a populated, public place for initial meetings. If your date pressures you to go to a private location, end the date.
- Inform Friends and Family: Share your plans with a friend or family member.
- Control Your Transportation: Ensure you have control over your transportation for the date.
- Know Your Limits: Be aware of the effects of drugs or alcohol on you.
- Protect Your Belongings: Don't leave drinks or personal items unattended.
- If Uncomfortable, Leave: It's perfectly fine to end the date early if you feel uncomfortable.
LGBTQ+ Travel: When traveling, be cautious. While we believe in inclusivity, some countries have laws targeting LGBTQ+ individuals. Always research the local laws and protections for sexual orientation when traveling to a new place. Be extra cautious when connecting with new people in these countries, and keep up with the latest sexual orientation laws through resources like ILGA World. Source: ILGA World, Updated March 2019
Sexual Health & Consent
Ensure Self-Protection
When used correctly and consistently, condoms can significantly decrease the risk of contracting and transmitting STIs such as HIV. However, be conscious that STIs like herpes or HPV can be transmitted through skin-to-skin contact. Vaccinations can help reduce the risk of contracting some STIs.
Be Aware of Your Status
Some STIs do not present symptoms, and it's not advisable to be uninformed about your status. Stay updated about your health and prevent the spread of STIs by getting tested regularly. If you're in the US, you can find a clinic near you here.
Open Communication
Effective communication is key. Prior to engaging in physical intimacy with a partner, discuss sexual health and STI testing. Keep in mind that in certain jurisdictions, knowingly transmitting an STI is a criminal offense. If you need assistance starting the conversation, check out these tips.
Informed Consent
All sexual activities must begin with consent, and it's essential to keep checking in with your partner. Verbal communication can aid you and your partner in respecting each other's boundaries. Consent can be withdrawn at any point, and sex should never be seen as a debt. Refrain from continuing if your partner appears uncomfortable or uncertain, or if they're unable to give consent due to the influence of drugs or alcohol. You can learn more about this topic here.
Help, Support, or Advice Resources
Remember, no method of risk reduction is foolproof, even when following these guidelines. If you have a negative experience, understand that it's not your fault and support is available. Report any incidents to us, and consider reaching out to one of the available resources. If you believe you're in immediate danger or need emergency assistance, dial 911 (for U.S. or Canada) or contact your local law enforcement agency.