Privacy & visibility

Your privacy on SkillSwap

SkillSwap is designed to help you learn and teach with real people — while keeping your personal information safe and under your control. This article explains what other users can see, what stays private, and how to adjust your visibility inside the platform.

What information is visible to other users

Only the details that help others learn who you are as a learner or tutor are public. These appear on your profile and match cards:

• Your first name — we only display the first name to keep the platform personal but safe.
• Your avatar — optional, but recommended for trust.
• Your bio — a short introduction (optional).
• Skills you teach — used for matching & session selection.
• Skills you’re learning — used for matching & routing relevant people to you.
• Languages — helps partners see if you can communicate.
• Badges & level — your progress indicators.

This information helps users decide if you are a good partner for a live session.

What stays private

• Your email address — never visible to anyone.
• Your phone number (if added in the future).
• Your exact timezone offset — we only show converted times.
• Your internal stats (match views, conversion rates, etc.).
• Your SP balance and payments.
• Your full payment history — top-ups, refunds, invoices.

SkillSwap also never shares your personal data with other users, advertisers, or external services without your consent.

Adjusting your visibility

Editable visibility settings

• Profile photo visibility — add or remove your avatar any time.
• Bio visibility — your bio is optional; removing it hides it fully.
• Skills to teach — visible to help people understand your expertise.
• Skills to learn — visible so potential tutors know how they can help.

How matching uses your data

The matching algorithm uses your skills, languages and timezone internally to find people who fit your goals. Only the final match list is shown publicly — not your full preferences or hidden details.

Learn more in How matching works.

Reporting, blocking and safety controls

If someone behaves inappropriately or makes you uncomfortable, you can block or report them. A blocked user:

• Cannot message you
• Does not appear in your matches
• Cannot send you session requests

Reports are reviewed securely and confidentially. Read more in Reporting a problem.

Privacy during video calls

Live video sessions happen directly inside SkillSwap with secure end-to-end communication. You control:

• Camera on/off
• Microphone on/off
• Screen sharing (optional)

Sessions are not recorded unless your jurisdiction requires explicit consent and both sides agree.

Data security

SkillSwap follows industry-standard encryption and storage practices. Your account data is protected with modern authentication protocols. Two-factor authentication will be available soon.

Next steps

• Review your profile settings at app.skillswap.io/settings
• Learn about session safety in Video call safety
• Understand how matches are formed in How matching works