Staying safe after an introduction
Most people are who they say they are. Some are not. These habits protect you either way.
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We do not verify anyone. CF4CF does not check identities, ages, relationship status or anything else people tell us, and we do not run background checks. An introduction means two people agreed to be introduced, nothing more.
Before you meet
- Talk on a video call first. It is the simplest way to check that someone is the person they describe.
- Take your time. Someone who is right for you will not mind going slowly.
- Share personal details gradually. Your workplace, home address and family details can wait.
- Search their name and any profile they share, if you like. Note anything that does not add up.
- Never send money to someone you have not met, for any reason, however urgent the story.
When you meet
- Meet somewhere public and busy, such as a café, during the day if you can.
- Tell a friend where you are going, who you are meeting, and when you expect to be back.
- Arrange your own travel there and back.
- Keep your phone charged, and stay in control of your drink.
- Leave whenever you want. You do not owe anyone an explanation.
Warning signs
- Asking for money, gifts, investments or help with a "temporary problem".
- Avoiding video calls, or always having a reason to postpone meeting.
- Pushing to move fast, or pressuring you to share private photos or information.
- Stories that change, or details that do not match what they told us or you.
- Anger or guilt when you say no or set a boundary.
If something goes wrong
If you feel unsafe, leave and get help. In an emergency in India, call 112. For online fraud, the national cyber crime helpline is 1930, and you can report at cybercrime.gov.in.
Please also tell us using the report form. You can mention your reference or the introduction if you like. We read every report, and we can close or block an application and stop any introductions that involve it.