Safety

Last updated: October 25, 2026

BarMatch is for meeting people at bars and restaurants, in person. Most nights out are just fun. These steps help keep them that way.

BARMATCH DOES NOT CONDUCT CRIMINAL BACKGROUND SCREENINGS OF ITS MEMBERS.

Verifying an ID confirms that a member is who they say they are and is 21 or older. It is not a criminal background check, and it can't tell you how anyone will behave.

Before you meet

Profiles can be faked. Anyone who can steal an identity can fake a profile. A verified ID confirms who someone is and their age, not their intentions.
Take your time. Chat in BarMatch first, and keep your phone number, home address, workplace and social media to yourself until you trust someone.
Ask your friends. If you have friends in common, a Vibe Check asks them for their read on someone.

When you meet

Meet in public, with people around, and stay at the venue for a first meetup.
Tell a friend or family member where you're going, who you're meeting and when you'll be back.
Watch your drink. Order from the bartender, keep your drink in sight, and know your limits.
Trust your gut. You can leave at any time. Venue staff can help if someone makes you uncomfortable.

If something goes wrong

Leave, and go somewhere you feel safe.
Block or report them. Open their profile and tap Block or report this person. Blocking hides you from each other across BarMatch, and they aren't told. A person on our team reviews every report.
In an emergency, call 911.

Where to get help

National Domestic Violence Hotline: 1-800-799-7233 (thehotline.org)
RAINN National Sexual Assault Hotline: 1-800-656-4673 (rainn.org)
988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline: call or text 988
BarMatch: write to us in Account → Contact Support in the app, or email support@barmatch.com.