Effective Date: 02 April 2026
Last Updated: 02 April 2026
1. Purpose
This Safety & Security Policy explains the tools, processes, and procedures Hike uses to help protect users during trips and while using the platform.
This policy focuses specifically on incident response, real-time safety tools, and platform protections, and should be read alongside our Terms of Service and Privacy Policy.
2. In-App Safety Features
Hike provides safety tools designed to support users before, during, and after trips.
2.1 Real-Time Trip Tracking
- All trips are tracked using GPS
- Trip routes, timestamps, and participant details are recorded
- This information may be used for safety reviews and investigations
2.2 Panic / Emergency Button
The Hike app includes an in-app emergency (panic) button.
When activated, the feature may:
- Display the user’s real-time location
- Allow quick access to emergency services
- Share trip details (driver, vehicle, route)
- Trigger an internal alert within Hike systems (if enabled)
Important:
- The panic button is intended for urgent situations only
- It does not replace official emergency services
2.3 Trip Information Visibility
During trips, users have access to:
- Driver or passenger identification
- Vehicle details
- Trip route and progress
3. Incident Reporting
Hike provides structured ways for users to report incidents.
3.1 Types of Incidents
Users should report any safety-related concern, including:
- Unsafe driving
- Harassment or misconduct
- Suspicious behavior
- Accidents or disputes
- Fraud or platform misuse
3.2 How to Report
Incidents can be reported through:
- In-app reporting tools
- Email: [email protected]
- Phone: +27 63 485 3489
Reports should include:
- Date and time of the incident
- Description of what occurred
- Any supporting evidence (if available)
3.3 Response Process
When an incident is reported, Hike may:
- Acknowledge receipt of the report
- Review trip data and account activity
- Request additional information
- Temporarily restrict accounts involved
- Take appropriate action based on findings
3.4 Escalation
For serious incidents:
- Users should contact local emergency services immediately
- Hike may cooperate with law enforcement where required by law
4. Emergency Handling
Hike is not an emergency service.
In urgent situations, users must contact:
- Police
- Ambulance or medical services
Hike may assist by:
- Providing trip records where legally required
- Supporting investigations when appropriate
5. Data Use for Safety
To improve safety and respond to incidents, Hike may use:
- Location data
- Trip history
- Communication logs (where applicable)
This information is used strictly for:
- Incident investigation
- Fraud prevention
- Platform safety improvements
6. Proactive Risk Monitoring
Hike may use automated and manual processes to:
- Detect unusual trip patterns
- Identify potentially unsafe behavior
- Flag accounts for review
This may result in:
- Temporary restrictions
- Additional verification checks
- Account suspension
7. Enforcement Actions
Based on safety reviews or incident reports, Hike may:
- Issue warnings
- Temporarily suspend accounts
- Permanently remove users from the platform
- Withhold access to services during investigations
8. Limitations
While Hike implements safety features and processes:
- We cannot guarantee the prevention of all incidents
- Users remain responsible for their own safety decisions
- Technology may not function in all situations (e.g., poor network coverage)
9. Continuous Improvement
Hike continuously improves safety by:
- Updating safety features
- Reviewing incident data
- Improving reporting tools
- Enhancing monitoring systems
10. Contact and Support
For safety-related concerns:
Hike Support
Email: [email protected]
Phone: +27 63 485 3489
