Safety tips and advice
Cleo verifies phone numbers, but we don't run background checks on Users. The tips below are how we recommend you stay safe — before, during, and after meeting someone you've matched with on Cleo.
Before meeting in person
1. Protect your personal information.
When the chat opens with another User, avoid sharing sensitive information like your home address, workplace, financial details, or personal identifiers early on. A legitimate match will never ask for money or financial help.
2. Communicate within the app.
Use Cleo's in-app messaging instead of moving to personal platforms (phone, social media) too quickly. The in-app Chat gives you a safer, reportable record if anything goes wrong.
3. Trust your instincts.
If something feels off — pushy, evasive, too good to be true — trust your gut and prioritize your safety. There's no obligation to keep chatting with anyone.
4. Watch for scams.
Be cautious of anyone asking for money, gift cards, crypto, or unusual favors. Be skeptical of "emergencies" that conveniently require financial help. Report and block any User who attempts this.
When arranging a meeting
1. Meet in a public place the first time.
Choose somewhere well-lit and well-trafficked: a café, a busy bar, a popular restaurant, a park during daylight. Don't agree to be picked up at your home or to go straight to a private location on a first meeting.
2. Tell a friend or family member.
Share your plans: where you're going, who you're meeting, and what time you expect to be back. Consider sharing your live location with a trusted person for the duration of the date.
3. Have your own transportation.
Avoid relying on your date for transportation to or from the meeting. Maintaining control over your departure keeps you safe and lets you leave whenever you want.
4. Stay alert.
Keep your wits about you. Never leave your drink unattended, and don't accept a drink you didn't see being poured or served directly to you.
5. Keep your phone charged.
Make sure your phone is fully charged before the date and that it stays easily accessible during it.
During and after the date
1. Maintain your boundaries.
Don't feel pressured to share more than you're comfortable with, or to engage in activities you're not ready for. A respectful match will respect your boundaries.
2. Leave if you feel unsafe.
You have every right to cut a date short if you feel uncomfortable or unsafe — for any reason. You don't owe anyone an explanation or a polite exit.
3. Report suspicious behavior.
If another User behaves abusively, threateningly, or otherwise inappropriately, report them inside the app (from the intro card or Chat), or email us directly at support@cleo.dating. Serious safety concerns are escalated immediately.
4. Trust your instincts after the date too.
If conversation with someone in the app starts feeling uncomfortable after the date, you can close the Chat at any time, block the other User, or report them. You're not obligated to continue any conversation that feels wrong.
In an emergency
If you are in immediate danger, call 911 (or your local emergency services). For crisis support in the U.S., you can also call or text 988 (Suicide and Crisis Lifeline) or text HOME to 741741 (Crisis Text Line).
For non-emergency reports about another Cleo User's behavior, email support@cleo.dating.
Need help?
Questions, concerns, or feedback about safety: support@cleo.dating. We read every message.