A Guide to Safe Chatting on Hearthmates

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Welcome to Hearthmates! We are committed to creating a safe and comfortable environment for all users in their quest to find a perfect roommate or housing. However, the digital world carries inherent risks, including encounters with individuals who may employ malicious tactics such as spam, fraud, and social engineering.

It's essential to understand these risks and how to protect yourself while using our platform. This guide is designed to promote safer interactions within our Screening Chats.

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Share Personal Information Wisely:

 

While some personal details are necessary for identity verification, property visits, and rental transactions, share them cautiously and only when trust has been established. Avoid revealing highly sensitive information such as your full name, home address, phone number, financial information, or social security number early in the process. Gradually share more as your confidence in your match grows.

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Caution with Links and Social Media:

 

Be wary of anyone who quickly moves the conversation to other social media platforms or shares suspicious web links. Cybercriminals often use these tactics to get you on a platform where they have more control, or to lead you to sites that could gather your personal information or infect your device with malware.

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Authentication is Key:

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As part of your protection, insist on video verification to confirm the identity of your potential roommate. This added layer of security can deter many malicious actors and reduce the chances of fraud..

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Know the Common Scams:

 

Familiarize yourself with common scams seen on housing search platforms. Be cautious of users who ask for money upfront or guarantee offers with unbelievable deals. If it's too good to be true, it probably is.

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It's Okay to Say No:

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Be assertive when necessary. It's okay to say "no" to a request if it makes you uncomfortable or if it seems suspicious. You have complete control over your actions, and your safety comes first.e more control, or to lead you to sites that could gather your personal information or infect your device with malware.

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Report Suspicious Behavior:

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We rely on you to help us maintain a safe and trustworthy community. If you come across any users that seem suspicious or engage in the behaviors described above, please report them using the "Report User" button in the dropdown menu of the chat screen. This helps us take action and keep the community safe.

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Additional Tips to Protect Yourself:

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• Stay Within the App: Keep your conversations within the Hearthmates app. Our app is designed with safety features, including the ability to report suspicious users. Avoid moving to other platforms where your security might be compromised.

• Be Cautious with Links: Do not click on any links shared by users you don't fully trust. These could lead to harmful websites or downloads. Verify Profiles: Take the time to verify the information provided by your match. Look for inconsistencies or red flags in their profile or conversation.

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Your vigilance is crucial in maintaining a safe and trustworthy community on Hearthmates. By following these tips and staying aware of potential risks, you can enjoy a secure experience while finding your ideal roommates and housing.

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Thank you for being a valued member of the Hearthmates community. Together, we can create a safe and enjoyable environment for everyone.

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Disclaimer:

 

The content provided is for informational purposes only and is intended to better equip our users with knowledge and awareness relating to cybersecurity and online interactions. The advice given does not amount to foolproof protection against potential threats or malicious users and should be used in conjunction with personal judgement and caution.

 

While Hearthmates endeavors to maintain a safe and secure platform, the inherent risks of interactions over the internet cannot be entirely eliminated. Hearthmates cannot and does not guarantee or warrant against loss, harm, or adverse impacts, including but not limited to the matters relating to personal safety, fraud, phishing, identity theft, or malicious software that may arise from the use of its services, notwithstanding the adherence to all safety advice provided. By using Hearthmates, you accept that you bear sole responsibility for any risks arising from your use of the platform and agree not to hold Hearthmates liable for any adverse effects.