Safety for Sex Workers – Real‑World Tips to Stay Secure

Working in the sex industry can be rewarding, but it also comes with risks. Knowing how to protect yourself saves time, money, and peace of mind. Below you’ll find straightforward steps you can start using today, whether you’re just starting out or have been in the business for years.

Online Safety Basics

Most first contacts happen on websites or apps, so your digital footprint matters. Use a strong, unique password for every platform and enable two‑factor authentication whenever it’s offered. If a site lets you hide your real name and phone number, take advantage of it – a burner number or a free email alias works well.

Never share your home address or personal email until you’ve verified a client’s identity. Look for red flags like rushed booking requests, payment promises that seem too good, or clients who refuse video calls. A quick video chat can confirm that the person on the other side is who they say they are.

Keep all chats, photos, and payment records. If a client disappears after a meeting or tries to blackmail you, this evidence can protect you legally. Store files in a secure cloud folder with a password, not on a public computer.

Physical Safety on the Job

When you arrange a meet‑up, always let a trusted friend know where you’re going, who you’re meeting, and the expected finish time. Use a check‑in app that shares your location in real time – it’s a simple habit that can make a big difference.

Choose neutral, public locations for the first meeting. A coffee shop or a hotel lobby lets you gauge the client’s behavior before you go to a private space. Trust your gut; if something feels off, end the conversation and move on.

Carry a personal safety device like a discreet alarm or a pepper spray if it’s legal in your area. Keep it within easy reach, not hidden in a bag you must dig through.

Set clear boundaries before any encounter. Explain what you’ll and won’t do, and stick to those limits. If a client tries to cross them, walk away. Having a non‑negotiable rule—like never allowing alcohol before a meeting—helps keep situations predictable.

After each appointment, take a few minutes to assess how it went. Did the client respect your limits? Was the location safe? Write down any concerns; patterns can reveal risky clients you should block.

Staying safe isn’t just about avoiding danger; it’s also about protecting health. Regular STI testing, using condoms, and discussing protection with clients keep you in control of your body. If a client refuses safe sex, it’s a clear sign to decline the job.

Finally, know your legal rights. In the UK, prostitution itself isn’t illegal, but related activities like soliciting in public or operating from a brothel can be. Familiarize with the local laws, and consider joining a sex‑worker support group that offers legal advice and peer support.

Taking these steps won’t eliminate every risk, but they give you a solid foundation to work confidently. Safety is a habit, not a one‑off checklist—keep refining your routine as you learn what works best for you.