Understand what Paths checks
Paths does not conduct criminal-background checks or independently verify a member’s identity or age. Date-of-birth rules use declared age. Automated photo checks assess photo eligibility and face presence; they do not establish identity, age, liveness, ownership or criminal history.
A shared place or historical encounter is not proof of an actual meeting, current location, continuous presence or compatibility. Some places can be sensitive. Avoid drawing conclusions about a person’s home, work, health, religion or routines from a location signal.
Protect yourself before sharing
| Topic | Details |
|---|---|
| Account access | Keep your device and connected Apple or Google account secure. Do not share a sign-in code. Be cautious of anyone claiming to be Paths staff who asks for passwords, money or access to your device. |
| Money and scams | Do not send money, gift cards, cryptocurrency or banking details to someone you have met through a dating service. Be cautious of urgent emergencies, investment offers, links and pressure to keep a request secret. |
| Location and social accounts | Avoid placing a private address, workplace schedule or confidential contact details in your profile. Review excluded areas and selected social accounts before sharing. Other services have their own privacy and blocking settings. |
| Stories and photos | Read a story invitation before accepting it. Cover-photo access can begin after joining; shared-place history opens after the additional approval step. Previously shared information or screenshots cannot always be recovered by changing a setting. |
Make meetings your choice
- Arrange an initial meeting in a public place, tell someone you trust your plans and arrange your own transport. You can leave, change the plan or end contact whenever you feel uncomfortable.
- Respect personal and sexual boundaries. Consent is specific, voluntary and ongoing; a past agreement or a match is not permission for a later activity. A person who cannot freely consent cannot provide consent.
- Do not leave drinks unattended or accept pressure involving alcohol, drugs or a private location. Look after your own needs and access to your phone, transport and support.
Get help and report
In immediate danger, use local emergency services. Paths email is not an emergency response channel. Reporting and blocking are separate app actions; a report does not automatically block the person.
Independent support organizations can provide specialist help. Their services, availability and privacy rules are separate from Paths. You can also report conduct that occurred on another service after a connection through Paths, identifying the relevant Paths account and context.
Information for Colorado members
The checks and limits above also apply in Colorado. Members can report suspected fraud, harassment, underage use and other safety concerns through the app or email. Our reporting page explains what to include and how to request review of an action.
Reliable information about violent or sexual offences, exploitation or other conduct relevant to member safety may lead to restrictions under the Terms and applicable law. An allegation alone is not proof of a conviction. A profile or continued access to the service is not a safety endorsement.