OkCupid Safety Settings & Online Dating Tips

OkCupid remains a widely used dating platform globally, with millions of users in Ireland, the UK, the United States, and beyond. In 2025, OkCupid has expanded its safety toolkit to include stronger identity verification, upgraded blocking options, and educational features to help users protect themselves in the digital dating world.

This guide explains every available safety setting, how to activate them, and most importantly, why each setting matters for your security.

 

 

Key Safety Settings on OkCupid

Photo Verification

• What it is: Users upload real-time selfies to confirm they match their profile pictures.
• Why it matters: This feature helps prevent catfishing by verifying user identity before conversations even begin.

 

Block and Report Tools

• What it is: Allows you to instantly block or report any user directly from their profile or message thread.
• Why it matters: Quickly taking action protects your mental well-being and supports community safety.

 

Incognito Mode

• What it is: Lets you browse profiles without being visible to others.
• Why it matters: Ensures privacy, especially when exploring discreetly or avoiding unwanted attention.

 

Two-Factor Authentication (2FA)

• What it is: Adds an extra layer of login security through text or authentication app.
• Why it matters: Shields your account from hacking attempts and identity theft.

 

Privacy & Data Controls

• What it is: Users can adjust who sees their profile, what data is shared, and opt out of personalised ads.
• Why it matters: Limits exposure of your personal information and protects digital privacy.

 

Profile Prompts Promoting Safety

• What it is: OkCupid offers profile questions that encourage openness and transparency.
• Why it matters: Promotes honest communication and flags questionable behaviour early.

 

Safety Tips within the App

• What it is: In-app safety education guides on spotting scams, staying safe during dates, and recognising red flags.
• Why it matters: Educates users directly while they browse, helping prevent unsafe situations.

 

Age Assurance Verification

• What it is: Verifies users are 18+ in compliance with legal requirements in Ireland, the UK, and the US.
• Why it matters: Prevents underage access and ensures the platform remains a safe space for adults.

 

 

How to Enable These Features

• Open the OkCupid app or website.
• Tap your Profile Icon > Settings.
• Navigate to Privacy & Safety.
• Turn on Photo Verification, 2FA, and Incognito Mode.
• To block/report someone, select the three dots on their profile or chat window.

 

 

Online Dating Safety Tips for Adults in 2025

Online dating is convenient, but it’s essential to stay vigilant:

• Always verify identity via video chat before meeting in real life.
• Meet in public, busy locations—never go somewhere private on a first date.
• Let someone you trust know where you’re going and who you’re meeting.
• Use in-app messaging only until you’ve built trust.
• Watch for red flags, such as inconsistent information, high-pressure tactics, or refusal to verify identity.

 

 

Compliance with Global Digital Safety Standards

OkCupid follows strict compliance protocols:

• In Ireland and the UK, it adheres to age assurance laws and works in accordance with the Online Safety Commissioner and UK Online Safety Act (2025).
• In the USA, OkCupid supports anti-fraud investigations, privacy regulations, and collaborates with the FTC to fight romance scams.
• Globally, OkCupid offers an extensive Safety Centre and updated community guidelines reflecting best practices.

 

 

Why These Safety Features Are Crucial

Each setting plays a vital role in your online safety:

• Photo Verification ensures the person you’re speaking to is real.
• Block & Report helps eliminate threats and toxicity.
• 2FA protects your personal information.
• Incognito Mode provides peace of mind when browsing.
• Safety Tips empower you with knowledge.
• Age Assurance ensures everyone on the platform is legally eligible.

Using these features helps you create a more respectful, secure, and positive experience for yourself and others.

 

 

Partner With Us For A Safer Digital World

At Children of the Digital Age, we believe digital safety is a human right, for everyone, at every age. Our work spans almost a decade, across generations, helping individuals, families, and professionals navigate the evolving challenges of the online world with clarity, support, and up-to-date expert guidance.

 

We provide independent, research-backed advice on digital privacy, online safety, responsible tech use, and the laws shaping the internet in Ireland, the UK, and globally. Whether you’re a parent, teacher, adult platform user, or simply someone who cares about digital well-being, this is your hub for trusted information.

 

We encourage you to:

• Follow our work, stay informed, and be part of a digitally safer future.
• Share our resources to help others benefit from expert safety advice.
• Support our mission to keep digital environments safe, inclusive, and age-appropriate.

Visit childrenofthedigitalage.org to explore our full range of safety guides and digital well-being tools.

Together, let’s make the online world safer, one informed choice at a time.

 

 

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© 2025 Children of the Digital Age. All rights reserved. | Last Updated: August 2025