Your privacy matters, plain and simple. Here are honest answers to common questions about how Couchsurfing collects, uses, and protects your information, and the controls you have over your own data.
What Information Does Couchsurfing Collect?
We collect information you provide directly, like when you create an account, update your profile, or contact support. We may also collect information automatically when you use the platform, such as how you interact with content. If you sign in with a third-party service, such as Apple or Google, we may receive certain information from that service too.
How Is My Information Used?
Your information helps us run and improve the platform, personalize your experience, connect you with other members, and keep the community safe. For the full picture on how your data is used, head to our Privacy Policy.
How Is My Data Protected?
We take reasonable measures to protect your personal information from unauthorized access, loss, misuse, or disclosure. Your data is handled in line with applicable privacy and data protection laws, including GDPR.
What Privacy Controls Do I Have Over My Profile?
You'll find two privacy toggles in Settings → Privacy Settings:
- View My Profile: When enabled, only logged-in members can view your profile. Non-logged-in visitors won't be able to see it
- Only Show First Name: When enabled, your last name is hidden from your profile across the platform
Not every profile field can be hidden. Only fields designated as sensitive are toggleable. Some information, like your gender, pronouns, and lifestyle details, is automatically hidden from non-logged-in visitors regardless of your settings.
What About Gender, Sexuality, and Lifestyle Details?
You can control whether your gender and sexuality are displayed on your profile. Both default to hidden, and you can turn visibility on or off at any time from your profile settings.
Lifestyle categories (things like your social style, star sign, tidiness, and similar fields) are entirely optional. You're not required to fill any of them in. The only profile requirement related to interests is selecting at least 3 interests during onboarding.
How Do I Download a Copy of My Data?
You can request a copy of your personal data anytime from Settings → Export Data. Exports include your profile information and photos in a downloadable file. You can request an export once every 30 days, and your download link will be sent to the email address on your account within 48 hours.
What Happens to My Data if I Deactivate My Account?
Deactivating temporarily hides your profile and pauses your activity, but your personal data is kept. You can reactivate anytime to pick up right where you left off.
What Happens to My Data if I Delete My Account?
Deleting your account is permanent and can't be undone. Your personal data is deleted or anonymized in line with privacy and legal requirements, including GDPR.
A Couple Things to Know:
- Deactivation and deletion are very different actions with different outcomes. If you just need a break, deactivation is the reversible option
- Deleting your account doesn't automatically cancel an active membership. You'll need to manage your membership separately before deleting to avoid continued billing
Need more help? Get in touch. You can also reach us anytime through Settings → Contact Support.