Connecting Safely: Building Friendships That Feel Good - Online and IRL

STAYING SAFE ONLINE

Protect Your Personal Information

Avoid sharing details like your home or work address, daily routines, or financial information with someone you haven’t met in person.

Stay on the Platform

Keeping conversations within the Connect by Tribal app helps ensure a safer experience. Be cautious of users who try to move conversations to private platforms (text, email, or social media) too soon.

Recognise Red Flags & Report Suspicious Behaviour

Your safety matters. Report and block any user who:

• Pressures you to share personal or financial details.
• Asks for money or financial favours.
• Uses threatening, offensive, or inappropriate language.
• Tries to manipulate or guilt-trip you into meeting.

You can report or block directly through their profile—our team takes all reports seriously.

Protect Your Account

Use a strong password and never share your login details. Connect by Tribal will never ask for your credentials via email or text—if you receive such a request, report it immediately.

Never Send Money or Financial Information

Even if you feel a strong connection, never send money or disclose financial details. Scammers often use emotional tactics to manipulate trust.

Meeting in Person: Stay in Control

Take Your Time

Building a genuine connection takes time. Use Connect by Tribal’s voice memos and messages to get a sense of the person before deciding to meet. A quick phone or video call can help you spot any red flags before an in-person date.

Meet in Public, Stay in Public

For first (and even second) dates, choose a busy, public location—like a café, park, or event space. If someone insists on a private or isolated spot, that’s a red flag.

Tell a Friend About Your Plans

Share your plans (time, location, and your date’s name) with a trusted friend or family member. You can even set up a check-in text during the date.

Be in Control of Your Transportation

Make sure you have your own way home – whether it's public transport, a ride-share app, or a friend picking you up. Avoid relying on your date for transportation.

Know Your Limits

Be mindful of alcohol and substance use. If someone pressures you to drink or do anything you’re uncomfortable with, that’s a sign to leave.

Stay Aware of Your Surroundings

• Keep an eye on your drink at all times.
• Hold onto personal items (like your phone and bag).
• Trust your instincts—if something feels off, don’t ignore it.

Exit Strategies: You Can Always Leave

If you feel unsafe or uncomfortable at any time, you do not have to stay.

• Have a pre-planned excuse (e.g., “I need to meet a friend soon”).
• If needed, ask a bartender or staff member for help—they are trained to assist in uncomfortable situations.
• Trust your gut—your safety comes first.

Consent and Intimacy: Communication is Key

If you decide to pursue intimacy, ensure that everything is based on mutual, enthusiastic consent.

• Consent is ongoing—it can be withdrawn at any time.
• No one owes anyone intimacy, regardless of how long you’ve been talking.
• Listen, respect, and communicate—your comfort and safety are just as important as your date’s.

Healthy connections are built on trust, respect, and clear boundaries.

Resources for Help

If you ever feel unsafe or need support, help is available:

• Emergency Services: Call 000 (for immediate help)
• 1800RESPECT: 1800 737 732 (support for sexual assault & domestic violence)
• Lifeline: 13 11 14 (24/7 crisis support)

At Connect by Tribal, we believe in empowering you to connect safely, confidently, and on your own terms. Whether online or in-person, your well-being comes first.