Your safety is the most important thing to us. Online dating is a wonderful way to meet people — but it is important to stay smart and protect yourself. Please read these tips carefully before you start connecting with other members.
| 🚨 The Most Important RuleNEVER send money to anyone you have met online — no matter what reason they give you. This is the number one sign of a scammer. It does not matter how long you have been talking or how much you think you know them. If someone asks for money, stop talking to them and report them to us immediately. |
Protect Your Personal Information
- Do not share your home address with anyone you have just met online.
- Do not share your phone number until you feel completely safe and comfortable.
- Never share your bank account details, credit card number, or financial information.
- Be careful about sharing your workplace or daily routine too early.
How to Spot a Scammer
Unfortunately, scammers exist on every platform. Here are the warning signs:
- They claim to fall in love with you very quickly — after just a few messages.
- Their profile photos look like a model or celebrity (search their photo on Google Images to check).
- They say they are working abroad, in the military, or on an oil rig.
- They keep making excuses to avoid a video call.
- They ask for money for an emergency, travel costs, or medical bills.
- Their messages feel copied and pasted — very formal or too perfect.
| 💡 Tip — Do a Reverse Image SearchIf you are not sure if someone’s photos are real, right-click on their profile photo and choose ‘Search image on Google’. If the same photo appears under a different name, they may be using a fake identity. |
Safe Messaging Tips
- Take your time. There is no rush to share personal details.
- If something feels wrong, trust your instincts. You can block or report anyone at any time.
- Keep your conversations on RafikiOnline while you are getting to know someone.
- Be honest about who you are — and expect the same from others.
Meeting Someone in Person
When you feel ready to meet someone in person for the first time, please follow these steps:
- Always meet in a public place — a café, restaurant, or shopping centre.
- Tell a friend or family member where you are going and who you are meeting.
- Arrange your own transport. Do not let the person pick you up from your home on the first meeting.
- Keep your phone charged and with you at all times.
- Do not feel pressured to stay if you feel uncomfortable. It is always okay to leave.
How to Report Someone
If a member makes you feel unsafe, asks for money, or behaves inappropriately, please report them immediately. You can:
- Click the ‘Report’ button on their profile page.
- Send us an email at support@rafikionline.com with their profile name and details of what happened.
We take all reports seriously and will investigate immediately. Reported members may be permanently removed from the platform.
| 💚 You Are Not Alone If you have been a victim of an online scam or feel unsafe, please reach out to us. We are here to help. You can also contact your local police if you believe you have been a victim of fraud. |