Terms of Service

Community Safety Guidelines & User Agreement

Last Updated: January 15, 2025

Welcome to HeartConnect

HeartConnect is more than a platform—it's a sanctuary for those seeking healthy, respectful relationships. By using our services, you agree to these Terms of Service, which are designed to protect our community and ensure everyone feels safe, respected, and supported.

Our Commitment to You

We prioritize your safety above all else. These terms reflect our unwavering commitment to creating a space where authentic connection can flourish without fear, manipulation, or harm.

Core Values

Safety First

Your physical and emotional safety is our highest priority in every interaction.

Respect

Every member deserves dignity, understanding, and compassionate communication.

Authenticity

Genuine connections are built on honesty, transparency, and authentic self-expression.

Community Standards

Respectful Communication

  • Use kind, supportive language that builds others up
  • Listen actively and respond thoughtfully to others' experiences
  • Disagree respectfully without personal attacks or judgment
  • Avoid language that could trigger trauma or cause emotional harm

Privacy Protection

  • Never share personal information about other community members
  • Respect boundaries when others choose not to share details
  • Keep private conversations confidential
  • Report any privacy violations immediately

Authentic Sharing

  • Share your genuine experiences and feelings
  • Be honest about your relationship status and intentions
  • Avoid creating false personas or misleading profiles
  • Acknowledge when you're sharing opinions versus facts

Safety Protocols

Zero Tolerance Policy

HeartConnect maintains a zero-tolerance policy for harassment, manipulation, predatory behavior, or any actions that compromise user safety. Violations result in immediate account suspension and potential legal action.

Prohibited Behaviors

  • • Harassment or intimidation
  • • Manipulation or gaslighting
  • • Predatory or exploitative behavior
  • • Sharing explicit content without consent

Immediate Actions

  • • Account suspension
  • • Content removal
  • • Law enforcement notification
  • • Victim support resources

Reporting Mechanisms

Instant Report

One-click reporting on any content or user profile

Anonymous Chat

Confidential reporting through secure messaging

Crisis Hotline

24/7 emergency support for urgent situations

Crisis Intervention Protocols

When user safety is at immediate risk, HeartConnect may need to take extraordinary measures, including breaching normal confidentiality to protect lives.

Emergency Situations Include:

  • • Threats of self-harm or suicide
  • • Domestic violence in progress
  • • Stalking or immediate physical danger
  • • Child abuse or exploitation

Content Guidelines

Expert Verification Standards

All professional advice content is verified by licensed relationship counselors, therapists, or safety experts before publication.

Verified Expert Content

Look for the verified badge on expert-authored content and professional guidance.

Harmful Content Prevention

Prohibited Content

  • Advice promoting unhealthy relationship dynamics
  • Content that normalizes abuse or manipulation
  • Discriminatory or hate-based messaging
  • Explicit sexual content or imagery

Encouraged Content

  • Evidence-based relationship guidance
  • Personal growth and self-awareness content
  • Safety education and awareness
  • Supportive community discussions

User Responsibilities

Honest Participation

  • Provide accurate information about yourself
  • Share experiences truthfully and constructively
  • Acknowledge when you need professional help

Safety Awareness

  • Protect your personal information
  • Trust your instincts about concerning behavior
  • Report suspicious or harmful activity

Community Respect

  • Honor others' boundaries and privacy
  • Support fellow community members
  • Contribute positively to discussions

Professional Boundaries

  • Understand peer support vs. professional therapy
  • Respect expert credentials and advice
  • Seek appropriate professional help when needed

Moderation Policies

Our Moderation Approach

HeartConnect employs a combination of AI-powered content screening, expert human review, and community reporting to maintain a safe, supportive environment.

AI Screening

Automated detection of harmful content patterns

Expert Review

Licensed professionals evaluate complex situations

Community Reports

User-driven safety through active reporting

Enforcement Actions

Progressive Enforcement

1

Warning & Education

First-time minor violations

2

Temporary Suspension

Repeated or moderate violations

3

Permanent Ban

Severe or repeated violations

Appeal Process

  • Submit appeal within 30 days
  • Independent review by senior moderators
  • Response within 7 business days
  • Clear explanation of decision

Legal Framework

Agreement & Acceptance

By accessing or using HeartConnect, you acknowledge that you have read, understood, and agree to be bound by these Terms of Service. If you do not agree with any part of these terms, you must not use our platform.

Modifications

We reserve the right to modify these terms at any time. Users will be notified of significant changes via email and platform notifications. Continued use after modifications constitutes acceptance.

Governing Law

These terms are governed by the laws of [Jurisdiction]. Any disputes will be resolved through binding arbitration, except for matters involving user safety or emergency situations.

Questions About These Terms?

We're here to help you understand your rights and responsibilities as a HeartConnect community member.

Email Support

legal@heartconnect.com

Live Chat

Available 24/7

Help Center

Comprehensive FAQ