Staying Safe on Winklr

Your safety is important to us. Winklr includes several built-in safety features, and there are steps you can take yourself to stay safe while using the app.

Winklr's built-in safety features

Anonymised location

Your exact location is never shared with other users. Winklr anonymises your position so that others can see you are nearby without knowing your precise whereabouts.

Distance permanently hidden

Unlike some apps, Winklr does not display the distance between you and other users. This is an anti-stalking measure that is always on and cannot be turned off.

Discovery mode

Discovery mode controls whether you appear on other people's radar. When you turn Discovery mode off, you are completely hidden -- no one can find you, and you cannot browse others. This is a powerful privacy tool if you ever want to take a break or feel you are being targeted.

Device-level blocking

When you block someone, the block is tied to their device, not just their account. This means they cannot circumvent the block by creating a new account on the same device.

Photo moderation

All photos uploaded to Winklr are automatically reviewed for inappropriate content. This helps keep the platform safe for everyone.

Age verification

Every user must complete age verification powered by Yoti during sign-up. This helps protect the community from underage access and disposable accounts.

Two-factor authentication

Winklr uses passwordless sign-in with passkeys, Google sign-in, or Apple sign-in where available to help protect your account from unauthorised access.

Personal safety tips

Guard your personal information

In the early stages of a conversation, avoid sharing details that could identify you in real life, such as:

• Your home address or neighbourhood
• Your workplace or school
• Your phone number or social media handles
• Your daily routine or schedule

Take your time getting to know someone before sharing personal details.

Be cautious of requests for money

Never send money to someone you have met online, no matter how convincing the story. This is a common tactic used by scammers.

Trust your instincts

If something feels off about a conversation or a person's behaviour, trust that feeling. You can block or report anyone at any time -- there is no penalty for being cautious.

Use the block and report tools

Do not hesitate to block someone who makes you uncomfortable. If someone is violating Community Guidelines, report them so our team can take action. Both tools are available from any profile or chat.

Meeting in person

If you decide to meet someone from Winklr in person:

• Meet in a public place -- choose a busy cafe, restaurant, or park for your first meeting.
• Tell someone you trust -- let a friend or family member know where you are going, who you are meeting, and when you expect to be back.
• Arrange your own transport -- do not rely on your date for a ride, so you can leave whenever you choose.
• Stay sober -- keep a clear head, especially on a first meeting.

Safety resources in the app

• Staying Safe Online -- accessible from the Chat Info panel in any chat.
• Community Guidelines -- accessible from Settings. These outline the behaviour expected of all Winklr users.