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Safety Tips

 

Connecting in the real world is why Bente exists, but your safety is our top priority. Because Bente facilitates real-time, in-person meetups at Hotspots, you should always be aware of your surroundings. While we want you to stop swiping and start living, use your best judgment to stay safe while making real connections.

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Discovery & Real-Time Interactions

  • On Bente, checking into a venue makes you part of the local "Match Pool," but your Discovery settings control how people interact with you.

  • Bente Direct & Discovery: When you have Discovery ON while checked in, other users can see you and may approach you in person immediately (Bente Direct). If you prefer to be seen in the match pool but aren't ready for an immediate "pull up" approach, you can toggle Discovery OFF.

  • Control Your Presence: If you feel overwhelmed or simply want to enjoy the venue without being approached, you can turn off Discovery or check out of the venue at any time to remove yourself from the active map.

  • Be Prepared for Approaches: If your Discovery is on, be mentally prepared for someone to say hello. Always keep your head up and stay aware of your physical space.

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Handling Rejection & Respect

  • Bente is built on "Real Connections," which means real-world social cues are essential.

  • Rejecting with Kindness: If someone approaches you and you aren't interested, it is okay to say "No thank you" or "I’m actually just hanging with my friends right now." You are never orwed a conversation or your time to anyone.

  • Dealing with Rejection: If you approach someone and they aren't interested, respect the "No" immediately. Do not linger, do not ask why, and do not try to "convince" them. Gracefully exit the interaction. Harassment or "pestering" after a rejection is a violation of our community standards.

  • Ask for Help: If a rejection turns into a conflict, or if someone refuses to leave you alone after you've expressed disinterest, alert the venue staff immediately. Our partner venues are trained to help maintain a safe environment.

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Hotspot Safety Rules

  • Don’t Rush the Meet: Just because you see someone is at the same bar or coffee shop doesn't mean you have to approach them instantly. Take a few minutes to observe the vibe of the venue and the person.

  • Verify the Profile: Always ensure the person you see in the app matches the person standing in the venue before sharing a table or accepting a drink.

  • Stay in the Main Area: Keep your interactions in well-lit, populated areas of the Hotspot. Avoid moving to private booths or parking lots for a first meeting.

  • The "Bente Buddy" System: If you’re "pulling up" to a spot because you saw someone on the app, text a friend to let them know which venue you’re at and why.

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Transportation & Exit Strategy

  • Control Your Ride: Always have your own way home (your car, a ride-share app, or public transit). Never let a new match walk you to your car or offer you a ride home on the first meeting.

  • The "False Finish": If you want to end an interaction, it’s okay to say you’re meeting other friends or heading to the restroom rather than letting someone follow you to the exit.

  • Watch Your Drink: In a buzzing Hotspot, it’s easy to get distracted. Never leave your drink or personal items (phone, wallet) unattended while scanning the app or the room.

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Digital Safety & Privacy

  • Protect Your Info: Never share your home address, social security number, or specific daily routines with someone you just met.

  • Toggle Visibility: If you feel uncomfortable or want to leave a venue quietly, toggle your visibility off in the app immediately so your real-time presence is no longer broadcast.

  • Never Send Money: Report any user who asks for financial help, wire transfers, or "investment" opportunities. Bente is for social connections, not financial transactions.

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Reporting Behavior

  • Help us keep our Hotspots safe. Please block and report users for:

  • Inappropriate or aggressive behavior after a rejection

  • Underage users

  • Harassment, threats, or abusive in-app messages

  • Fraudulent profiles or solicitation

  • You can report any profile directly through the Bente app or by contacting our safety team.

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