Commence with virtual encounters. Despite the decline in COVID case rates, virtual encounters remain an excellent avenue to connect with that special someone. If you're not yet comfortable with face-to-face meetings, virtual dates provide an opportunity to unleash your creativity and foster deeper connections. Utilize the Adore video chat functionality for this purpose (refer to the video chat safety recommendations above). Explore these suggestions for your next virtual rendezvous:

-Embark on a themed online dining experience.

-Engage in online gaming sessions together.

-Master a TikTok dance routine in unison.

-Participate in an online workout class side by side.

Discuss the impact of COVID. One of the standout aspects of Adore is the platform's encouragement of open and honest communication, and COVID is no exception. Within our accepting community, members understand that individuals may have varying degrees of caution. Don't hesitate to initiate conversations with your newfound companions about COVID and pose questions that can help navigate potential awkwardness on a first date. Consider these sample queries:

-Are you currently experiencing any COVID symptoms?

-Have you previously contracted COVID?

-Have you received the COVID vaccine?

-Have you undergone COVID testing?

-Are you considered a high-risk individual?

-Do you prioritize the use of masks?

-Do you prefer indoor or outdoor dates?

-How do you feel about practicing social distancing?

Embrace outdoor activities. Presently, outdoor activities have gained popularity among individuals seeking to inject casualness into their dates while alleviating pandemic-related fatigue. When planning a date, always adhere to local health guidelines and draw inspiration from these outdoor dating ideas:

-Hiking expeditions

-Bicycle rides

-Picnic outings

-Lawn games and recreational sports

Opt for secure locations. When deciding on a meeting place, select venues that prioritize proper ventilation and adhere to stringent sanitation practices. This ensures both you and your companion feel safe and comfortable during your time together. Additionally, remember to maintain regular hand hygiene.

Adhere to regulations. Local and regional regulations exist for valid reasons. Although they may change frequently, obtaining the necessary information to ensure your safety and compliance with policies and procedures is easily achievable. So, even if part of your date involves waiting in line to enter an outdoor establishment, remember that it contributes to your well-being. Instead of becoming frustrated, utilize this time to break the ice with your date.

Stay vigilant regarding symptoms. We are all familiar with the common symptoms of COVID, such as cough, fever, and headache. If you experience any of these, it is essential not to dismiss them lightly. Instead, cancel the date and explain the situation to your companion. As long as you communicate effectively, your date should understand and likely appreciate your consideration. When in doubt, it is always advisable to get tested and postpone the date until you receive negative results.

Consider testing. Some daters have adopted the practice of undergoing COVID testing before their dates, as it is considered good etiquette and provides peace of mind. However, it is crucial to remember that a negative test is not always sufficient. You should continue to follow precautions and consider getting tested again a few days after the date.

At Adore, we prioritize your safety with a state-of-the-art security infrastructure, utilizing cutting-edge security monitoring solutions powered by advanced artificial intelligence threat detection and monitoring technologies. Complemented by our dedicated team of experts stationed at our Security Operations Center, we ensure swift response as the frontline defenders in the realm of cybersecurity, providing round-the-clock protection, 365 days a year, in every time zone. Rest assured, our team works tirelessly to safeguard your valuable data and protect your privacy from any potential theft or compromise.

Within our platform, we have implemented the most advanced and innovative bot detection software available in the industry. This software stands at the forefront, equipped to identify and mitigate any malicious automated activities, ensuring a secure and genuine experience for our users.

We prioritize the protection of our users' personal information and employ robust security measures to ensure their safety. This includes employing various layers of advanced encryption, both during data transmission and while stored on our servers, to safeguard sensitive details such as credit card information. User passwords are securely hashed and encrypted, and our dedicated staff members do not have access to them.

To maintain a secure community, we continuously verify and screen profiles to prevent fraudulent activities by members. 

-Our extensive technological infrastructure is centered around security, serving as the foundation of our platform.

-All user data is encrypted and securely stored within our controlled infrastructure at Adore.info. 

-We adhere to rigorous quarterly compliance audits, both internally conducted by our skilled security team and externally conducted to maintain PCI compliance. 

Therefore, all our websites utilize Transport Layer Security (TLS), a cryptographic protocol designed to guarantee privacy and data integrity over computer networks.

Additionally, we regularly provide comprehensive privacy and security training to all our staff members, ensuring they stay up-to-date with the latest best practices and protocols.

Adore employs a network of cutting-edge automated and manual surveillance systems, technologies, procedures, and guidelines. We allocate substantial financial resources each year to prevent, identify, and eliminate individuals involved in inappropriate activities across our platforms. Some of the tools we employ include:

-Automated scans of profiles during registration to detect red-flag language and images.

-Continuous monitoring for fraudulent accounts and suspicious messaging activities.

-Manual evaluations of profiles, activities, and user-generated reports that raise concerns.

We also rely on our members to promptly report any profiles exhibiting worrisome behavior. This allows us to investigate and take necessary actions accordingly.

At Adore, members have the option to undergo a comprehensive background search and ID verification process. Once verified, a badge is displayed on their profiles to indicate that they have successfully completed the background check procedure.

Adore is integrating a range of features including video chat, automated photo analysis, and photo verification. These functionalities significantly contribute to our mission of ensuring that every match corresponds to their claimed identity. Additionally, we are incorporating AI-powered anti-harassment prompts on our platforms. These prompts leverage machine learning to automatically identify potentially offensive messages and encourage recipients to report such behavior.

Adore provides users with in-app safety resources, equipping them with a comprehensive set of information to stay informed about the latest safety features. These resources are regularly updated and developed in collaboration with industry experts to ensure they remain at the forefront of online safety practices.

Adore boasts a dedicated customer care team focused on assisting our members and promptly addressing any complaints or reports of misconduct. Severe violations of our Terms of Use are reported to a centralized safety repository and cross-checked across all our platforms to identify potential multiple accounts. If any additional accounts are found, they are promptly blocked to uphold the safety of our community.

-Engaging in or promoting escort or prostitution services, including soliciting, enticing, or arranging clients for such services, as well as any involvement or facilitation of human trafficking. This includes refraining from any past or present activities related to escorts or associations with escort sites or services.

-Posting or transmitting any content that exploits individuals under the age of 18, attempting to obtain personal information from individuals under 18, failing to report any knowledge of a person under 18 to hello@adore.info, or continuing to interact with anyone on the site whom you suspect or know to be under 18 years of age. Any violation of these prohibitions will lead to the termination of your membership and possible referral to law enforcement or relevant authorities, such as the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children.

-Publishing incomplete, false, misleading, or inaccurate information about yourself and/or your profile.

-Sharing content that is not your own or for which you do not possess full rights.

-Impersonating or misrepresenting your affiliation, connection, or association with any person or entity.

-Granting unauthorized access to non-public areas of the Adore platform if you have a password, disclosing or sharing your password with third parties, or using your password for unauthorized purposes. Furthermore, refraining from using meta tags, code, or other devices containing references (explicit or implied) to the Adore platform (including trademarks, trade names, service marks, logos, or slogans) to redirect individuals to any other website for any reason.

-Soliciting passwords or personally identifiable information from other members for commercial or unlawful purposes, or for any other reason that violates the Adore Terms of Service.

-Initiating contact with other members outside the Adore platform through any means without obtaining explicit permission via the Adore platform.

-Posting advertisements or solicitations for employment, businesses, or pyramid schemes.

-Using Adore for any activities that violate laws, statutes, ordinances, or regulations.

-Encouraging, promoting, facilitating, or instructing others to engage in illegal activities through Adore.

-Engaging in any activity that violates criminal laws in the jurisdiction where the member resides, visits, or contacts other members.

-Bullying, stalking, intimidating, or harassing other members, as well as Adore employees or representatives.

-Framing or mirroring any part of the Adore platform without prior written authorization from Adore.

-Utilizing our services with the intent to harm Adore, its associated websites, affiliates, or subsidiaries.

-Using the Adore platform for competitive purposes, including copying, soliciting, conducting competitive or market analysis, or any other actions conducted by competitors.

-Recruiting for purposes including pornography, modeling, or escort sites or establishments.

-Employing the Adore platform or services for commercial use. Our platforms and services are designed for personal use only.

-Engaging in any other activities that violate applicable laws, including, but not limited to, laws pertaining to export controls

The global health crisis has taught us invaluable lessons in expressing our comfort levels, personal boundaries, and physical needs. We have become adept at discussing mask usage, informing others about potential exposure, and prioritizing isolation when ill.

When engaging in conversations with a partner or potential partner, it is crucial to establish open lines of communication and address any concerns openly. Consider discussing:

-Contraceptive methods employed: What form of birth control is being utilized?

-Protection against sexually transmitted infections (STIs): Are preventive measures in place?

-STI testing history: When was the last time your partner underwent testing?

-COVID-19 vaccination status and adherence to current social distancing practices: Are these aspects important to your partner?

If broaching these topics feels uncomfortable, you can initiate the dialogue by sharing your own information first. For instance, you may say, "To start, I wanted to let you know that I recently underwent STI testing, and I haven't engaged in any sexual activity since then. Additionally, I use birth control, but I believe it's essential to prioritize condom usage. Are there any preferences or concerns you would like to discuss?"

Prior to the availability of vaccines that somewhat improved safety during social gatherings, many of us grew accustomed to undergoing COVID-19 testing (and subsequent quarantine) before engaging in social interactions. Similar principles can be applied to the context of STI testing.

As per the National Coalition for Sexual Health, the recommended frequency of STI testing varies depending on your relationship status and sexual activity. If you find yourself emerging from quarantine with a desire to mingle and explore new connections, it is advisable to undergo an initial comprehensive screening encompassing common STIs such as chlamydia, gonorrhea, HSV-2, syphilis, hepatitis, and HIV.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) state that both gender and age should be considered when prioritizing specific tests and determining the frequency of testing. Engaging in a discussion with your primary care provider can assist in establishing an appropriate STI testing schedule that caters to your specific requirements.

While it may not be feasible for everyone, it is always prudent to get tested for STIs before engaging in sexual activity with a new partner. For individuals who frequently engage in sexual encounters with new partners, having an open and honest conversation with your primary care provider regarding an STI screening schedule and implementing safe sex precautions becomes crucial in maintaining the well-being of both you and your partners.

Affirmative agreement entails actively and willingly expressing consent to engage in sexual activity. It serves as a clear indication that both parties desire and want to participate in a sexual encounter. Any sexual activity that occurs without consent amounts to rape or sexual assault.

Sexual consent signifies an explicit agreement to partake in a sexual act. Before engaging in any sexual activity, it is essential to ascertain whether the other person is willing to engage as well. It is equally important to honestly communicate your own desires and boundaries to your partner.

Consent and the act of seeking consent revolve around establishing personal boundaries and respecting those of your partner. It is crucial to regularly check in with your partner to ensure clarity. Both individuals must fully and willingly agree to engage in sexual activity for it to be consensual.

Without consent, any sexual activity, including oral sex, genital touching, or vaginal/anal penetration, becomes sexual assault or rape.

Sincerely given. Consent should be a genuine choice made without any form of pressure, manipulation, or influence from drugs or alcohol.

Alterable. Anyone can change their mind at any time regarding their comfort level or willingness to engage in specific activities, even if they have engaged in them before or find themselves in a vulnerable situation.

Fully informed. You can only provide consent when you possess complete and accurate information about the situation. For instance, if someone promises to use protection but fails to do so, full consent cannot be given.

Enthusiastic. When it comes to sexual activity, participation should be driven by genuine desire and willingness rather than feeling obligated or expected to engage.

Explicitly stated. Saying yes to one activity (e.g., making out) does not imply consent for other activities (e.g., intercourse).

Ultimately, you have the final say over what happens to your body. It does not matter if you have engaged in sexual activities in the past or if you initially agreed and then changed your mind. You are entitled to say "stop" at any point, and your partner must respect that boundary.

Consent should never be assumed based on past behavior, appearance, or location. Sexual consent should always be communicated clearly, leaving no room for doubt or confusion. Silence does not equal consent. Additionally, consent is not limited to the first time with a partner. Even in established relationships or prior sexual encounters, consent must be obtained before each instance of sexual activity.

Laws exist to determine who can provide consent and who cannot. Individuals who are intoxicated, under the influence of drugs, or unconscious are unable to give consent. There are also laws in place to protect minors (individuals under 18 years old) from being coerced into sexual activity with older individuals.

The age of consent refers to the minimum age at which a person is legally considered capable of providing consent for sexual activities. Adults who engage in sexual activity with individuals below the age of consent may face legal consequences, including imprisonment and registration as sex offenders. The age of consent varies among different regions within the United States and across different countries. Additionally, individual states may have their own specific laws defining the age of sexual consent.

Rape, sexual assault, and sexual abuse encompass various forms of violence that involve sexual contact without consent. This includes vaginal or anal penetration, oral sex, and genital touching.

In the United States, the legal definitions of rape and sexual assault may differ. Some states use these terms interchangeably, while others provide distinct definitions. Often, the term "sexual assault" is used broadly to encompass any non-consensual sexual contact, while "rape" refers specifically to sexual contact involving penetration.

Anyone can be a victim of sexual assault, regardless of their gender, sexual orientation, or age. However, certain groups, such as women (especially women of color), LGBTQ+ individuals, and those with developmental disabilities, may be more vulnerable to experiencing sexual assault throughout their lives.

Sexual violence can manifest in various ways. It does not necessarily involve the use of weapons, and victims are not required to physically resist, scream, or repeatedly say "no" for it to be considered rape or sexual assault. Most instances of sexual assault do not occur at the hands of strangers in dark alleyways; often, the perpetrator is someone known to the victim, such as a romantic partner. If you or someone you know has experienced such violence, remember that you are not alone, and support is available.

It is crucial to remember that regardless of the circumstances, the victim is never at fault for sexual violence. Every individual has the right to decide what they do or do not want to engage in sexually.

-If you or someone you know is in immediate peril, please dial 911.

-Notify us of members soliciting monetary offers for sexual activities.

-Inform us of members identifying themselves as individuals offering escort or prostitution services, as this is strictly prohibited according to the Adore Terms of Service.

-Report any instances of online harassment committed by a member.

-Notify us of individuals who request upfront monetary payments before meeting in person. This includes, but is not limited to, individuals sharing personal stories to solicit money or claiming urgent needs, such as covering their phone bills.

-Report members who inquire about your address for the purpose of sending gifts.

-Report members who request your banking information, such as account numbers or passwords.

-Inform us of any members seeking individuals under the age of 18.

-Report any members claiming to be under the age of 18.

-If you suspect you are a victim of human trafficking or have information about a potential trafficking situation, please reach out to the National Human Trafficking Hotline at (888) 373-7888 or via SMS at "BEFREE" or 233733 (Text "HELP" or "INFO").

-To report suspected human trafficking to Federal law enforcement, please call (866) 347-2423.

At Adore, we prioritize the safety and well-being of our members. We provide a seamless reporting system both within our app and online, allowing all members to easily report instances of abuse or assault. When a report is received, our dedicated team thoroughly investigates the matter and takes appropriate action. This may involve identifying the involved member(s) and swiftly blocking any associated accounts found on the Adore platforms. In more serious cases, we may also refer the matter to the relevant law enforcement agency for further investigation.

Our collaboration with law enforcement is a fundamental aspect of our commitment to maintaining a secure environment. 

We take pride in our close partnership with law enforcement agencies and are always ready to offer our full support and cooperation in active investigations.

Furthermore, we actively work alongside law enforcement to proactively report any potential threats of violence, self-harm, or imminent physical harm. We foster a collaborative relationship with law enforcement, ensuring that we provide them with the necessary information and assistance without any objections or delays.

At Adore, we believe in creating a community that is safe, respectful, and free from abuse or assault. We value the trust our members place in us and are dedicated to maintaining a secure platform for all.