guidelines & resources

The Alt Style Safety & Resources & Community Guidelines

Welcome to the Alt Style Community - Our Community is about ACCEPTANCE and CONSENT of all walks of the Alternative Lifestyle world. NO INTOLERANCE of any kind will be accepted, we ask our community members to live and let live in a respectful manner. We wish for members to express themselves freely without JUDGEMENT or HARRASSMENT. Below we have given some guidelines, safety measures and resources. Please contact us at info@thealtstyle.com if you feel you have suggestions or concerns. We are open to work with authorities and all organizations to make this a safe and happy community for all.

Nudity/Sexual Content

We are fine with nudity and sexual content as long as it's YOU or you have the EXPRESS CONSENT of the person you are posting it for.

Harassment

Do not engage, or encourage others to engage, in any targeted abuse or harassment against any other user. This includes sending any unsolicited sexual content to your matches. Reports of stalking, threats, bullying, or intimidation, are taken very seriously.

Violence and Physical Harm

We do not tolerate violent, graphic, children, non consensual behaviors, bestiality (sex with animals) or gory content, or any actions or content that advocate for or threaten violence of any sort, including threatening or promoting terrorism. Physical assault, coercion, and any acts of violence are strictly prohibited. Consensual Kink and BDSM is fine but anything that looks non consensual will be removed and may be reported. Content that advocates for or glorifies suicide or self-harm is also not allowed. In these situations, we may take a number of steps to assist the user, including reaching out with crisis resources.

Hate Speech

Any content that promotes, advocates for, or condones racism, bigotry, hatred, or violence against individuals or groups based on factors like (but not limited to) race, ethnicity, religious affiliation, disability, gender, age, national origin, sexual orientation, or gender identity is not allowed.

Private Information

Don't publicly broadcast any private information, yours or anyone else's. This includes social security numbers, passports, passwords, financial information or unlisted contact information, such as phone numbers, email addresses, home/work address.

Spam

Don't be fake. Be real instead. Don't use The Alt Style to drive people to external websites via a link or otherwise.

Promotion or Solicitation

Soliciting other users is prohibited on The Alt Style. It's fine to invite your matches to something that you're doing, but if the purpose of your profile is to advertise your event or business, non-profit, political campaign, contest, or to conduct research, we may delete your account. While we're excited that you're doing a comedy show next week, please don't use The Alt Style to promote it.

Prostitution and Trafficking

Promoting or advocating for commercial sexual services, human trafficking or other non-consensual sexual acts is strictly prohibited and will result in your account being banned from The Alt Style.

Scamming

The Alt Style has a zero-tolerance policy on predatory behavior of any kind. Anyone attempting to get other users' private information for fraudulent or illegal activity may be banned. Any user caught sharing their own financial account information (PayPal, Venmo, etc.) for the purpose of receiving money from other users may also be banned from The Alt Style.

Impersonation

Be yourself! Don't pretend to be someone else.

Do not impersonate, or otherwise misrepresent affiliation, connection or association with, any person or entity. This includes parody accounts. While we think your Mike Pence profile is hilarious, you aren't Mike Pence. And if you are, what are you doing on The Alt Style?

Minors

You must be 18 years of age or older to use The Alt Style. As such, we do not allow images of unaccompanied minors. If you want to post photos of your children, please make sure that you are in the photo as well. If you see a profile that includes an unaccompanied minor, encourages harm to a minor, or depicts a minor in a sexual or suggestive way, please report it immediately.

Copyright and Trademark Infringement

If it's not yours, don't post it. If your The Alt Style profile includes any work that is copyrighted or trademarked by others, don't display it, unless you are allowed to do so.

Illegal Usage

Don't use The Alt Style to do anything illegal. If it's illegal IRL, it's illegal on The Alt Style.

One Person, One Account

The Alt Style accounts can have multiple owners, you may add your partner or partner(s)

Third Party Apps

The use of any apps created by anyone other than The Alt Style that claim to offer our service or unlock special The Alt Style features (like auto-swipers) is not allowed.

Account Dormancy

The Alt Style is fun to use… all the time! Use The Alt Style at the lake, use The Alt Style while eating cake. Use The Alt Style when you're out, use The Alt Style when in doubt! But, if you don't log in to your The Alt Style account in 2 years, we may delete your account for inactivity.

REPORT ALL BAD BEHAVIOR- reportabuse@thealtstyle.com

 

The Commitment we have to our Members

We take the safety, security, CONSENT and well-being of our users very seriously. As an Alternative Lifestyle community for ADULTS ONLY we understand there are many varying degrees of CONSENSUAL play. However, we strongly believe any incident of sexual misconduct or criminal behavior is one too many and encourage you to report it to the authorities immediately and also to us and the member will be removed from our community entirely.

We are continuously exploring new updates, partnerships and technologies to enhance and inform our safety efforts while fostering a respectful environment for meeting new people within the Alternative Lifestyle communities of all walks and kinks.

As we continue to grow we will  continue to utilize and improve our network of automated and manual moderation and review tools, systems and processes - and invest significant resources - to prevent, monitor and remove inappropriate behavior (impersonation, harassment and more) from our website and app.

We encourage you to use the report and or block methods provided or email reportabuse@thealtstyle.com .

We have a zero-tolerance policy on harassment and encourage our community to report any instance of misconduct and/or anyone who violates our Community Guidelines, Terms of Use or Privacy & Security. In the event that we receive such a report, our dedicated community team takes appropriate measures, which may include removing the content, banning the user, or notifying the appropriate law enforcement resources.

We will be constantly evaluating and refining our processes, and will always work with law enforcement, wherever and whenever possible, to protect our users against any NON CONSENSUAL OR ILLEGAL activity.

REPORT ANY CHILD ABUSE, SEXUAL ABUSE, MINOR USERS OR BEASTIALITY IMMEDIATELY, INCLUDING SUSPICIONS OF PROSITUTION OR SEX TRAFFICKING OR ANY OTHER ILLEGAL ACTIVITY. Under all circumstances these will always be reported to the Authorities. The Alt Style aim is to bring sexually liberated people together within a community but to watch out for each other and ensure we are protecting those around us from abuse in any manner which is NON CONSENSUAL.

Resources:

Here are a group of leading experts and advocates involved in the study and prevention of sexual assault, sex trafficking, and similar issues.

Response to Reports of Assault:

The Alternative Lifestyle users can easily report instances of abuse or assault to us to have a member removed, However we also strongly encourage any user who believes they have been a victim of a crime to report it to law enforcement. Our team works to promptly investigate reported crimes, assess and take appropriate action, and fully cooperates with law enforcement in any investigation.

Member Education:

We offer safety tips, both online and via the website and app, to educate and empower users to make smart and safe choices while interacting through the Alternative Lifestyle. For your protection any adds that are placed on the website are reviewed by our admin team first, if for any reason someone is able to manipulate or edit an add or you think its not appropriate please contact us immediately for review.

Government Relations and Legislative Work:
We understand that it's our responsibility to play a role in defining the standards for the entire industry - which is why we support Match Group's efforts to work closely with legislators and regulators across the world to define and pass new safety-focused laws that can help make both our users and those on other tech platforms safe. As we progress we will work with more and more agencies to ensure the safety of our members if you have any questions, comments, concerns or recommendations please send us an email at info@thelifestyle.com.

We welcome the opportunity to work with governments around the world to make the Internet a safer place for everyone.

Fraud

We take the issue of fraud very seriously. We have a zero-tolerance policy on predatory behavior of any kind. We have a dedicated fraud team that utilizes a network of industry leading technology that scans for fraud and reviews each and every member profile for red flag language, and conducts manual reviews of suspicious profiles, activity, and user generated reports. Ultimately, no one, should ever send money to someone they haven't met in person.  In addition, we encourage our members to report any individual who has requested financial information via our self reporting tool.  Those two steps will greatly assist in stopping almost every scam in its tracks and help protect the next potential victim.  Please understand we are a lifestyle community with social content and the opportunity to advertise businesses and services but we will not tolerate ILLEGAL activity of any kind. You may be naked or sexual but if must follow our guidelines of CONSENSUAL activity.

Dedication to Inclusion of all identities:

No matter your gender identity, sexual orientation, ethnicity, or background, The Alt Style welcomes you. We strive to make our community the most inclusive platform for meeting new people and promoting businesses and events. Racism, Sexism or any intolerance will be cause for immediate lifetime ban. If it is not your dynamic be respectful and "scroll on by"

Harassment

We have a zero-tolerance policy for harassment on our platform. We encourage all users to report any unacceptable behavior so that the community team can investigate and take appropriate action.

Underage Usage:

The Alt Style is for users 21 and over and we work hard to vigilantly maintain an adults only community. We utilize a network of automated and manual moderation and review tools, systems and processes - and invest significant resources - to prevent and remove minors from our app.

These tools may include automatic scans of profiles for red-flag language and images, manual reviews of suspicious profiles, activity, and user generated reports, as well as blocking email addresses, phone numbers and other identifiers associated with underage users trying to circumvent these restrictions. We also depend on our users to report any profiles that may depict a minor, so that we can investigate and remove, accordingly.

We do not want minors Period including anyone posting pictures of minors, sexual references to minors.

Solicitation/Prostitution:

Solicitation of any kind - whether attempting to buy or sell - is against our Terms of Use. If a user encounters a profile violating our terms, we encourage them to report via the self-reporting tool or email us at reportabuse@thealtstyle.com.  Making such a report allows our dedicated community team to take appropriate measures, which may include removing the profile or banning the user.

Illegal Substances:

Profiles or Ads promoting illegal substances violate our Terms of Use and we have a system in place to remove these profiles from the app. If a user encounters a profile violating our terms, we encourage them to report it in within the app.

Dating Safety Tips

Meeting new people is exciting, but you should always be cautious when interacting with someone you don't know. Use your best judgment and put your safety first, whether you are exchanging initial messages or meeting in person. While you can't control the actions of others, there are things you can do to help you stay safe during your experience. Please note we also do not VOUCH for any business advertised on the Laternative Lifestyle community. Some businesses have been "Verified" for location or accuracy but please do your research and due diligence like any main stream store or service for your own protection. The Alt Style CANNOT be responsible for the services or businesses advertised. The Alt Style provide Advertising space so if you feel anything is illegal or misrepresented please report it immediately for our review. reportabuse@thealtstyle.com

Online Safety

  • Never Send Money or Share Financial Information

Never send money, especially over wire transfer, even if the person claims to be in an emergency. Wiring money is like sending cash - it's nearly impossible to reverse the transaction or trace where the money went. Never share information that could be used to access your financial accounts. If another user asks you for money, report it to us immediately.

For tips on avoiding romance scams, check out some advice from the U.S Federal Trade Commission on the FTC website.

  • Protect Your Personal Information

Never share personal information, such as your social security number, home or work address, or details about your daily routine (e.g., that you go to a certain gym every Monday) with people you don't know. If you are a parent, limit the information that you share about your children on your profile and in early communications. Avoid sharing details such as your children's names, where they go to school, or their ages or genders.

  • Stay on the Platform

Keep conversations on The Alt Style platform while you're getting to know someone. Users with bad intentions often try to move the conversation to text, messaging apps, email, or phone right away.

  • Be Wary of Long Distance and Overseas Relationships

Watch out for scammers who claim to be from your country but stuck somewhere else, especially if they ask for financial help to return home. Be wary of anyone who will not meet in person or talk on a phone/video call-they may not be who they say they are. If someone is avoiding your questions or pushing for a serious relationship without meeting or getting to know you first - that's a red flag.

  • Report All Suspicious and Offensive Behavior

You know when someone's crossed the line and when they do, we want to know about it. Block and report anyone that violates our terms. Here are some examples of violations:

    • Requests for money or donations

    • Underage users

    • Harassment, threats, and offensive messages

    • Inappropriate or harmful behavior during or after meeting in person

    • Fraudulent profiles

    • Spam or solicitation including links to commercial websites or attempts to sell products or services

 

  • Protect Your Account

Be sure to pick a strong password, and always be careful when logging into your account from a public or shared computer. The Alt Style will never send you an email asking for your username and password information - if you receive an email asking for account information, report it immediately.

Meeting in Person

  • Don't Be In A Rush

Take your time and get to know the other person before agreeing to meet or chat off The Alt Style. Don't be afraid to ask questions to screen for any red flags or personal dealbreakers. A phone or video call can be a useful screening tool before meeting.

  • Meet in Public and Stay in Public

Meet for the first few times in a populated, public place - never at your home, your date's home, or any other private location. If your date pressures you to go to a private location, end the date.

  • Tell Friends and Family About Your Plans

Tell a friend or family member of your plans, including when and where you're going. Have your cell phone charged and with you at all times.

  • Be in Control of Your Transportation

We want you to be in control of how you get to and from your date so that you can leave whenever you want. If you're driving yourself, it's a good idea to have a backup plan such as a ride-share app or a friend to pick you up.

  • Know Your Limits

Be aware of the effects of drugs or alcohol on you specifically - they can impair your judgment and your alertness. If your date tries to pressure you to use drugs or drink more than you're comfortable with, hold your ground and end the date.

  • Don't Leave Drinks or Personal Items Unattended

Know where your drink comes from and know where it is at all times - only accept drinks poured or served directly from the bartender or server. Many substances that are slipped into drinks to facilitate sexual assault are odorless, colorless, and tasteless. Also, keep your phone, purse, wallet, and anything containing personal information on you at all times.

  • If You Feel Uncomfortable, Leave

It's okay to end the date early if you're feeling uncomfortable. In fact, it's encouraged. And if your instincts are telling you something is off or you feel unsafe, ask the bartender or server for help.

  • LGBTQ+ Travel

Be careful while traveling

We recognize and believe in the importance of being inclusive of all gender identities and sexual orientations, but the reality is this: nowhere in the world is without potential risk, and some countries have specific laws that target LGBTQ+ people.

Check out the laws around you when you travel to a new place and research what types of legal protection, if any, are available to you based on sexual orientation. In the event that you're in unsafe territory, we suggest toggling off "Show me on The Alt Style" which you can find under the settings page.

It's important to exercise extra caution if you choose to connect with new people in these countries - as some law enforcement have been known to use dating apps as tools for potential entrapment. Some countries have also recently introduced laws that criminalize communications between individuals on same-sex dating applications or websites and even aggravate penalties if that communication leads to sexual encounters.

Visit ILGA World to see the latest sexual orientation laws by country, and consider donating to support their research.

Source: ILGA World, Updated March 2019

Sexual Health & Consent

  • Protect Yourself

When used correctly and consistently, condoms can significantly reduce the risk of contracting and passing on STI's like HIV. But, be aware of STIs like herpes or HPV that can be passed on through skin-to-skin contact. The risk of contracting some STIs can be reduced through vaccination.

  • Know Your Status

Not all STIs show symptoms, and you don't want to be in the dark about your status. Stay on top of your health and prevent the spread of STIs by getting tested regularly.

  • Talk About It

Communication is everything: Before you get physically intimate with a partner, talk about sexual health and STI testing. And be aware - in some places, it's actually a crime to knowingly pass on an STI.

  • Consent

All sexual activity must start with consent and should include ongoing check-ins with your partner. Verbal communication can help you and your partner ensure that you respect each other's boundaries. Consent can be withdrawn at any time, and sex is never owed to anyone. Do not proceed if your partner seems uncomfortable or unsure, or if your partner is unable to consent due to the effects of drugs or alcohol.

  • NO MEANS NO -

Don't ever feel pressured into sexual situations. The Alternative Lifestyle is for CONSENTING adults to experience sexual desires and fantasies. It is in no way meant for pressuring or being pressured into situations you are not comfortable with. Always make sure you have close friends/plans in place if visiting a lifestyle event. REPORT ALL ABUSE TO THE POLICE.

 

Resources for Help, Support, or Advice

Remember - even if you follow these tips, no method of risk reduction is perfect. If you have a negative experience, please know that it is not your fault and help is available. Report any incidents The Alt Style, and consider reaching out to one of the resources below. If you feel you are in immediate danger or need emergency assistance, call 911 (U.S. or Canada) or your local law enforcement agency.

RAINN's National Sexual Assault Hotline
1-800-656-HOPE (4673) | online.rainn.org | www.rainn.org

Planned Parenthood
1-800-230-7526 | www.plannedparenthood.org

National Domestic Violence Hotline
1-800-799-SAFE (7233) or 1-800-787-3224 | www.thehotline.org

National Human Trafficking Hotline
1-888-373-7888 or text 233733 | www.humantraffickinghotline.org

National Sexual Violence Resource Center
1-877-739-3895 | www.nsvrc.org

National Center for Missing & Exploited Children
1-800-THE-LOST (843-5678) | www.cybertipline.com

Cyber Civil Rights Initiative
1-844-878-2274 | www.cybercivilrights.org

VictimConnect - Crime Victim Resource Center
1-855-4VICTIM (855-484-2846) | www.victimconnect.org

FBI Internet Crime Complaint Center
www.ic3.gov

LGBT National Help Center
1-888-843-4564 | www.glbtnationalhelpcenter.org

Trans Lifeline
1-877-565-8860 (US) or 1-877-330-6366 (CA) | www.translifeline.org