Meet Safely

Meeting people from the internet in public is pretty normal these days, but that does not automatically make it risk-free. Chatati is about real-life language meetups, so here are friendly, practical tips to help you feel safe and comfortable.

Before you meet

•Agree on a public place with people around, ideally somewhere you already know.
•Tell a friend what you are doing, where you are meeting and when you expect to be done.
•A rough time limit can help avoid awkwardness and gives both of you a natural endpoint.

During the meetup

•Keep expectations aligned: this is about language practice and having a good, respectful conversation.
•If the conversation moves into sensitive topics, check that both of you are comfortable.
•Use your own transport for first meetups so you can leave whenever you want.

Boundaries and consent

•You do not owe anyone an explanation for your boundaries.
•Only agree to what feels safe and comfortable for you and with people you feel okay meeting.

Online safety basics

•Never send money, gift cards, or financial information to someone from Chatati.
•Do not share your home address, workplace details, or ID documents early on.
•If someone pressures you or repeatedly ignores your boundaries, end contact.

If something feels wrong

•If something feels off, leave the situation safely and put your wellbeing first.
•Please use Chatati's report function when needed. The person you report is not told that you reported them.
•In serious situations or immediate danger, contact local authorities right away.

Optional extra precaution: Cover method

If you want additional safety structure, set up a simple check-in plan with a trusted friend:

Pick a friend who will be available during your meetup.
Agree on a check-in time and a code word/message.
Send the code at the agreed time so they know you are okay.
Agree in advance what they should do if you do not check in (call you, go to location, contact authorities if needed), and send a quick message once you're home.

Optional extra precaution: Cover method

If you want additional safety structure, set up a simple check-in plan with a trusted friend:

Pick a friend who will be available during your meetup.

Agree on a check-in time and a code word/message.

Send the code at the agreed time so they know you are okay.

Agree in advance what they should do if you do not check in (call you, go to location, contact authorities if needed), and send a quick message once you're home.