Start Slow
There are so many amazing folks using MegaMates to find special people just like you. But if someone on the system sounds like they could be too good to be true, then they probably are! While you’re getting to know your date you should keep in mind that MegaMates is a safe and secure system and you should take advantage of that and limit interactions to the system, at least until you really trust the person. Also be sure to keep an eye out for any odd behaviour or inconsistencies. Always trust your intuition, especially if they say or do anything that makes you in the least bit uncomfortable.
Guard Your Anonymity
One of the many benefits to meeting people on MegaMates is all your conversations are taking place on a confidential system. However, there’s no point in that if you’re giving out personal information. Never ever use your last name, home address, phone number, email address or place of work in your messages or mailbox ads. If you feel like someone is pressuring you or trying to trick you into giving them personal information then please report it by selecting 8 after hearing a private message or 7 if you have looked the user up by their box number. You can also speak to one of our customer service agents by pressing *9 from any menu.
Meet When You Are Ready
MegaMates is all about having fun conversations and making connections on the line. So you are never ever required to meet up with anyone in person and if you do choose to meet, you can ALWAYS change your mind. You may have an instinct you don’t want to ignore or a feeling that something isn’t right; whatever it is, do not ignore it! MegaMates assumes no responsibility for personal meetings so it’s up to you decide if the situation is safe.
Exercise Caution & Common Sense
Never trust anyone before they have earned your trust. If this person is really interested in you than they should be able to treat you in a way that makes you want to trust them. That sort of trust can only come from dialogue and taking the time to get a feel for their behavior. Take all the time you need to determine whether or not someone is trustworthy enough for you to meet up with. If you feel like the person might be lying then they probably are and it’s time for you to protect yourself. If you choose to take things to the next level and meet up in person be sure to use your own discretion and protect yourself. You can never be too cautious!
Do a Little Digging
At MegaMates your privacy is one of our biggest priorities. However, that means we do not do background checks on our members. Instead we suggest that you do a little of your own research before meeting up with anyone in person. Be sure to ask lots of questions so you can really get a sense of what this person is like. There are many ways to find out about people using internet search engines. Just remember to always use your brain before making a decision with your heart. If you find out that the caller is underage, let customer service know immediately by pressing 8 after hearing their private message or 7 if you have looked up the user by their box number. You can also speak to one of our customer service agents by pressing *9 from any menu.
Watch for Red Flags
You should always be on the lookout for any displays of aggression, anger, frustration or attempts to pressure or control you. Other warning signs can be passive-aggressive behaviour, disrespectful and unfriendly comments or any physically inappropriate behavior. Be wary if your date shows any of the following behaviors without a reasonable explanation: provides inconsistent information about age, interests, appearance, marital status, profession, employment. Lastly, be wary of anyone who does not give direct answers to direct questions.
Meet in a Public Place
Always let a friend know where you’re going and when you expect to return if you are going to meet up with someone in person. It’s a good idea to leave your date's name and phone number with a friend or family member before you leave. Never ever arrange for someone to pick you up at your home, or to meet you at their home. Bring your own transportation and be sure to meet in a busy public area like a familiar coffee shop or restaurant. Do not drink excessively because that could impair your ability to make good decisions and use your best judgment. If things are going well and you would like to take things to a second location, again, take your own transportation. Lastly, ALWAYS charge your cell phone and keep it on you.
Take Extra Caution Outside Your Area
If you are planning on leaving your city to meet up with someone, always arrange your own accommodation and transportation. Never tell the person the name of your hotel and never let them book the arrangements for you. Call your date when you feel settled and comfortable and be sure to meet them in a public place that you both agree on. If anything about the location makes you feel uneasy or unsafe, trust your intuition and leave immediately. Always be sure to let a friend or family member know what you’re doing and make sure they know how to contact you. Never forget to carry your fully charged cellphone on you at all times, just in case.
Get Yourself Out of a Jam
A date should be fun and exciting so you should never have to go somewhere that makes you feel unsafe or unsure. If something does make you feel uneasy then excuse yourself to call a friend, talk to staff on location or just leave. You should never ever feel embarrassed about what you’re doing to keep yourself safe. It’s NEVER too late to call for help or walk away. The right date will understand your need for safety.