Staying safe

Meet in public the first time

For your first meeting, choose a public place — inside the ward office, a café, a station. Don't invite a stranger to your home or go to theirs until you've built trust.

Protect your documents and money

Never hand over your residence card (在留カード), passport, bank book, My Number card, or cash to someone you just met. No genuine helper needs to hold these.

Keep your full address and personal documents out of public posts — share them only in chat, only when you're ready.

Watch for “easy money” scams

Be very careful with offers that promise quick, high pay for vague tasks, ask you to receive packages or open bank/phone accounts, or pressure you to act fast. In Japan these “闇バイト” (dark part-time jobs) are often crime. If something feels off, it is — walk away and report it.

Report and block

If anyone makes you uncomfortable, use the report and block buttons on their post or profile. Reports are confidential and help keep everyone safe.

Emergencies

In an emergency in Japan, call 110 for police or 119 for fire/ambulance. TokyoHelp is a community platform, not an emergency service.