Safety Tips

🎥 Video Chat First

Before meeting in person, have a video call to:

• Verify their identity matches their profile
• Get a feel for their personality and communication style
• Ask questions about their lifestyle and expectations
• See if there's a good vibe before committing to an in-person meeting

🔍 Do Your Research

• Google their name and check social media profiles
• Ask for references from previous roommates or landlords
• Verify their employment or student status if they mention it
• Check if the property listing is legitimate (Google the address, check property records)

📱 Share Your Plans

• Tell a friend or family member where you're going
• Share the address and the person's name/profile
• Arrange a check-in time to confirm you're safe
• Keep your phone charged and with you at all times

☕ Meet in Public First

For your first meeting, choose a public location such as:

• A coffee shop or café
• A busy restaurant or food court
• A public library or community center
• A well-lit, populated area during daytime hours

Avoid: Meeting at their home or inviting them to yours for the first meeting.

🚗 Transportation Safety

• Arrange your own transportation (don't accept rides)
• Park in a well-lit, public area
• Have an exit strategy planned
• Don't share your home address until you're comfortable

🧠 Trust Your Instincts

If something feels off, it probably is. Red flags include:

• They're pressuring you to make a quick decision
• They're evasive about basic questions
• They ask for money upfront (deposit, fees, etc.)
• They're uncomfortable or hostile
• Their story doesn't match their profile or earlier conversations
• They suggest meeting in an isolated location

It's okay to end the meeting early or decline if you feel uncomfortable!

👥 Bring a Friend

When viewing a property, bring a trusted friend or family member with you. If that's not possible, let someone know exactly where you are and when you expect to be done.

📸 Document Everything

• Take photos of the property's condition
• Note any damage or issues you see
• Get the landlord's contact information and verify it
• Ask for proof that the person showing you the property has the right to rent it

🚩 Property Listing Red Flags

• Price is significantly below market rate
• Landlord is "out of the country" and can't show the property
• They ask you to wire money or pay via untraceable methods
• They want a deposit before you've seen the property
• Photos are stolen from other listings (reverse image search them)
• They refuse to provide a written lease or contract

💰 Safe Payment Practices

• Use secure, traceable payment methods (bank transfer, check)
• Avoid cash payments when possible
• Never wire money to someone you haven't met
• Get a receipt for all payments
• Ensure your name is on the lease before paying

📄 Legal Protection

• Always sign a written lease or rental agreement
• Read the contract carefully before signing
• Make sure all verbal agreements are included in writing
• Keep copies of all documents and correspondence
• Consider having a lawyer review the contract if it's significant money

💳 Protect Your Personal Information

• Don't share your full ID, passport, or financial details too early
• Be cautious about giving out your home address
• Don't click suspicious links sent via messages
• Use RoomieFinder's messaging system when possible

What to Report

• Harassment or threatening behavior
• Suspected scams or fraudulent listings
• Fake profiles or identity theft
• Requests for money outside proper channels
• Inappropriate or offensive content
• Any behavior that makes you feel unsafe