Safety tips.

1. 01

   Never send money or share financial information.

   Never send money, especially by wire transfer, even if the person claims it’s an emergency. Wiring money is like sending cash: it’s almost impossible to reverse the transaction or trace the funds. Never share information that could be used to access your financial accounts. If another user asks you for money, report it to us immediately.

2. 02

   Protect your personal information.

   Never share personal details, such as your social security number, home or work address, or anything about your daily routine (for example, that you go to a certain restaurant every Monday) with people you don’t know. If you are a parent, limit what you share about your children on your profile and in early conversations. Avoid sharing details such as your children’s names, where they go to school, their age or their gender.

3. 03

   Stay on our platform.

   While you’re getting to know someone, keep your conversations on the Heyama platform. Users with bad intentions often try to move the conversation off the platform to text, phone or email.

4. 04

   Be wary of long-distance and overseas relationships.

   Watch out for scammers who claim to be from your country but are travelling abroad, especially if they ask for financial help to get home. Be wary of anyone who flatly refuses to meet in person, talk on the phone or take a video call: there’s a good chance they aren’t who they say they are. If someone dodges your questions or pushes for a serious relationship without wanting to meet or get to know you first, treat it as a real red flag.

5. 05

   Report all suspicious and offensive behaviour.

   You know when someone has crossed the line, and when they do, let us know. Block and report anyone who violates our terms of use. Here are some examples of violations:

   • Requests for money or donations
   • Underage users
   • Harassment, threats and abusive messages
   • Inappropriate or harmful behaviour during or after meeting in person
   • Fake profiles
   • Spam or solicitation, such as links to resale sites or attempts to sell products or services
6. 06

   Protect your account.

   Make sure you choose a strong password. Heyama will never email you asking for your username or password. If you receive an email like this, report it to us immediately.

1. 01

   Don’t rush.

   Always get to know someone before meeting them or talking outside the Heyama platform. Don’t be afraid to ask questions whose answers might raise a red flag or tell you this relationship is better left alone. A phone or video call can be a useful screening tool before meeting.

2. 02

   Meet in a public place and stay there.

   Arrange first dates in busy public places: never at your home, your date’s home or any other private location. If your date pressures you to go somewhere private, end the date.

3. 03

   Tell friends or family where you’re going.

   Tell a friend or relative where you’re going and when. Make sure you have your phone with you and that it’s fully charged.

4. 04

   Don’t rely on anyone else to get around.

   We want you to be in control of how you get there and back, so you can leave whenever you want. If you’re driving, have a plan B, such as a ride-sharing app or a friend who can pick you up.

5. 05

   Know your limits.

   Be aware of how drugs or alcohol affect you personally: they can impair your judgement and alertness. If your date tries to pressure you into taking drugs or drinking more than you’re comfortable with, stand firm and end the date.

6. 06

   Never leave drinks or personal items unattended.

   Know where your drink comes from and where it is at all times: only accept drinks poured or served directly by the bartender or waiter. Many substances slipped into drinks to facilitate sexual assault are odourless, colourless and tasteless. Keep your phone, bag, wallet and anything carrying personal information on you at all times.

7. 07

   If you feel uncomfortable, leave.

   Don’t hesitate to cut a date short if you feel uncomfortable. In fact, we encourage it. And if your instincts tell you something is off or you don’t feel safe, ask the bartender or waiter for help.

1. 01

   Protect yourself.

   Used correctly and consistently, condoms can significantly reduce the risk of contracting or passing on an STI, such as HIV. Be aware, though, of STIs like herpes or HPV that can be passed through skin-to-skin contact. You can reduce the risk of catching some STIs by getting vaccinated.

2. 02

   Know your status.

   Not all STIs show symptoms, and it’s better not to bury your head in the sand. Stay on top of your health and help prevent the spread of STIs by getting tested regularly.

3. 03

   Talk about it.

   Communication matters: before getting physically intimate with a partner, talk about sexual health and STI testing. And be aware that in some places, knowingly passing on an STI is actually a crime.

4. 04

   Consent.

   All sexual activity must start with mutual consent and should include repeated check-ins with your partner. Talking openly can help you and your partner make sure each other’s boundaries are fully respected. You can stop at any time, because you don’t owe anyone sexual favours. Stop if your partner seems uncomfortable or unsure, or if they are unable to consent consciously because of drugs or alcohol.

Remember that even if you follow these tips, no risk-reduction method is foolproof. If you have a negative experience, know that it is not your fault and that help is available. Report any incident to Heyama, and consider contacting one of the resources below. If you think you are in immediate danger or need emergency help, dial 117 or 17 in Cameroon, or the local law enforcement service wherever you are.