🛡️ Safety Tips for Using Connect

Connect is a powerful way to meet people nearby for spontaneous conversations, coffee, or shared activities. We designed it to encourage meaningful, real-world encounters — but just like any in-person meeting, your safety matters most.

This guide outlines how to stay safe while using Connect, especially when meeting someone face to face for the first time.

✅ Before You Meet

1. Trust your instincts.
If something feels off, you’re never obligated to meet. Only interact with people who make you feel comfortable and respectful during the chat.

2. Take your time to chat first.
Before agreeing to meet, exchange messages and get a sense of who the other person is. You’re under no pressure to meet immediately.

3. Share your plans.
Tell a friend or family member where you’re going, who you’re meeting, and when you expect to return. It’s always smart to keep someone in the loop.

4. Choose a public meeting place.
Always meet in a well-lit, public location like a coffee shop, park, or restaurant. Never agree to meet someone in a private space or remote area, especially on a first meeting.

5. Keep your personal information private.
You’re not required to share your phone number, home address, or any social accounts. Keep the conversation inside the app until you're completely sure.

🤝 During the Meeting

6. Stay aware of your surroundings.
Keep your phone charged and accessible. Trust your gut and leave the situation if you feel uncomfortable at any point.

7. Stay sober and alert.
Avoid overconsumption of alcohol or other substances that could affect your judgment during first meetings.

8. Be polite, but firm.
If the meeting doesn’t feel right or you want to end it early, you don’t owe anyone an explanation. Your safety and comfort come first.

🚫 Managing Unwanted Interactions

9. Use the Block feature.
If someone makes you uncomfortable or behaves inappropriately, you can block them. Once blocked, they will no longer appear in your Connect grid or be able to contact you.

10. Report suspicious behavior.
Help keep the community safe. If you encounter behavior that feels threatening or abusive, please report it through the app.

🔒 What We Do to Protect You

• Your exact location is never visible to other users.

• You can turn off Discovery at any time to become invisible to others.

• Connect conversations are stored securely on your device — you’re always in control.

• Your Connect profile is separate from your main UTurn identity.

• We actively monitor for misuse of the feature and take violations seriously.

⚠️ Disclaimer

UTurn provides tools to help you connect, but we are not responsible for what happens during or after an in-person meeting. Please use caution, trust your judgment, and follow these safety tips to protect yourself.

The Connect feature is intended for users who are of legal age to meet independently in their country or region. This typically ranges from 16 to 18 years old, depending on local laws. Please use the feature responsibly and respectfully.

🤝 Stay Safe, Stay Social

We built Connect to make it easier for people to meet — whether for a quick walk, a bike ride, or just a friendly conversation. When used wisely, it can create great moments. Use it on your terms, stay safe, and enjoy discovering new people in your area.