This came up in conversation recently and I realized I had no good answer. Niche apps for specific subcultures within the gay community have become very active.
Safety and discretion features on modern gay apps are much more sophisticated than before. Reverse image search is your best friend for quickly vetting profile photos.
Basic precautions I follow:
- Platforms with active moderation and real reporting tools are worth prioritizing.
- Never share your real last name, address, or workplace before meeting someone in person.
- A VPN helps with general privacy but is not a complete solution for anonymity.