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Using Ashley Madison®

Your guide to all things Ashley Madison, including a quickstart guide, how to manage features, photos, notifications, and more.

Updated over 2 weeks ago

Your experience is everything to us, and we want to make it as seamless as possible. This guide is designed to help you get the most out of Ashley Madison—quickly and effortlessly. Let’s dive in.

Profile Verification

🔵 As part of our commitment to creating an authentic community, we’ve taken significant steps to address fraudulent profiles and improve the overall experience for our Members—including profile verification. Learn More →

Connecting off Ashley Madison

⚠️ Proceed with caution if a Member asks to move your connection off Ashley Madison. Learn More →

1. Quick-Start Guide

💡 Being a Member of Ashley Madison is free, but Credits are required to access premium features to connect with other Members.

Ashley Preferred
(Subscription)

Level up your Membership with more benefits: more daily Winks and Private Key Requests, a 30-day Search Boost, and more.

✴️ Ashley Prime
(Subscription or one-time purchase)

Stand out in Search, attract more connections, and get 50% more messages* for 30 days. Buy now →

⤴️ Auto-Credit Top-Up

Automatically top up your Credits when you have 12 or less with the most recent Credit package purchased.* Manage →

🔁 Automatic Private Key Exchange

Automatically share access to your Private Photo Gallery when any Member shares theirs with you first. Manage →

💎 Credits

Use Credits to send Messages, Winks, and Private Key Requests. Buy now →

📩 Collect Message
(Requires Credits)

A Collect Message is like a collect call—the Member being contacted covers the Credits to read and reply if they accept. Manage →

❤️ Favorites

Favorites keep track of your top connections.

💋 Local Match Messages

Sends pre-composed messages on a Member’s behalf to other Members about potential matches. Manage →

💬 Messages
(Requires Credits)

Messages are sent with Credits. After your first message, subsequent non-Priority messages to the same member are free†. More info →

📷 Photos

Upload a photo for better results‡ and keep them discreet by using our privacy tools →

🤩 Priority Man
(Requires Credits)

Highlight your profile in local search results for 30 days. Requires a Credit package.

🚨 Priority Messages
(Requires Credits)

​Upgrade your regular message to a Priority Message for boosted delivery with a read receipt. Priority Messages are enabled by default. Manage →

🗝️ Private Keys

Private Keys unlock Private Photos—get them by sending Private Key Requests. Manage →

🫦 Private Key Requests
(Requires Credits)

Private Key Requests are sent to Members when someone requests that they share their Private Photos. Members get 3 free Private Key Requests daily. Manage →

🔥 Private Photos

Private Photos are photos that are typically spicy in nature, and Members have full control over who they share them with. More info →

Quick Reply Messages (female only)

Female profiles can send custom or pre-composed automatic replies in response to Winks and Favorites. Manage →

🥷 Stealth Mode
(iOS only)

Stealth mode lets you customize the Ashley Madison® app icon on your phone notifications for optimal discretion. More info →

👀 Viewed Me

Viewed Me lets you know who’s been checking you out. Viewed Me →

😉 Winks
(Requires Credits)

Winks let you flirt quickly and easily. Members get 3 free Winks daily.

* Excludes introductory 100-Credit package for first-time purchases. If this was your last purchase, your account will be topped up with the 200-Credit package.

† Excludes Priority Messages

‡ Members with photos get 4x more messages


2. Your Profile

💡 All text changes require manual approval by an administrator. Most are approved within four hours, but during peak times, weekends, or holidays, it may take up to 24 hours.

You’re in full control of your Ashley Madison experience, including what information you choose to share on your profile through your Greeting, Photo Galleries, About Me, Vitals, and Interests and Desires. More →

Username

Usernames are only used to log into your Ashley Madison account. Other Members can't see your username. Your username can only be changed on the Ashley Madison app.

Locating Your Username

iOS or Android

  1. Tap on the menu [☰] in the top left corner

  2. Then on Settings

  3. Then Account

  4. Your username will appear on this page.

Web Browser

  1. Click on the menu [☰] in the top-left corner

  2. Then on Settings

  3. Then Account

  4. Your username (and profile number) appear at the top.

Nickname

A nickname is your screen name visible to other Members, and can only be changed on the desktop or mobile Ashley Madison website. Regardless of whether you change your nickname, your username remains the same.

Editing Your Nickname


iOS or Android

  1. Tap on the menu [☰] in the top-left corner

  2. Then on Settings

  3. Then Account/Account Information

  4. Then Username

  5. Type in your new username

  6. Tap Save.

Web Browser

  1. Click on Profile

  2. Then on Edit (beside your nickname)

  3. Update your nickname

  4. Select Save.

Profile Number

💡 Your profile number appears at the bottom of all email notifications, in the fine print near your email address.

Profile Numbers are assigned to Members when they sign-up, and are needed for escalation with Customer Service.

Locating Your Profile Number

iOS or Android

  1. Tap on the menu [☰] in the top-left corner

  2. Your profile number appears at the bottom of the screen.

Web Browser

  1. Click on the menu [☰] in the top-left corner

  2. Then on Settings

  3. Then Account

  4. Your profile number (and username) appear at the top.

Editing Profile Content

⚠️ All text changes in your Greeting and About Me sections must be manually approved by an Administrator. New photos must also be manually approved.

Edit your Greeting, Photo Galleries, About Me, Vitals, and Interests and Desires.

iOS and Android

  1. Tap on Profile

  2. Then select Edit on the sections you want to change

  3. Make your changes

  4. Tap Done.

Web Browser

  1. Click on Profile

  2. Then select Edit on the sections which you want to change

  3. Make your changes

  4. Click Save.

Hiding Your Profile

When your profile is hidden, it won’t appear in search results or be visible to other Members, but you can still log in, browse the Discover page, and update your profile.

You can unhide your profile anytime without losing any Credits.

⚠️ Important: After 12 months of inactivity (no logging in), your account will be deemed inactive, deleted automatically, and unable to be retrieved.

iOS and Android

  1. Tap on the menu [☰] in the top left corner

  2. Then on Settings

  3. Then Profile Options

  4. Enable or disable Temporarily hide profile.

Web Browser

  1. Click on the menu [☰] in the top-left corner

  2. Then on Settings

  3. Then Security & Privacy

  4. Enable/disable Hide profile

Profile Tips

Crafting Your About Me

An interesting About Me section is essential for making a good first impression and getting other members’ attention on Ashley Madison.

We recently conducted an Ashley Madison Member survey* and found:

  • 93% of responding members said they always read someone’s profile before messaging them

  • 39% said they aren’t interested if a profile doesn’t have enough information

  • 27% won’t initiate contact if it’s unclear what someone’s looking for.

To help you craft your About Me section for the best results possible, here are some tips and takeaways.

  1. Be honest and authentic: Your About Me section should be an accurate representation of who you are and what you’re after, so be honest about your intentions. Nothing can sink a conversation faster than realizing the person you’re talking to is full of it.

    Tip: Instead of writing what you think members want to hear, double down on the truth. If you’re looking for a casual, sex-only arrangement, just say so and make your offer as enticing as possible.

  2. Highlight your best qualities: Use your About Me section to showcase your best qualities and highlight what makes you unique and worth connecting with.

    Tip: Try to keep things contextually relevant, and focus on the attributes that will entice someone to get to know you better. Are you the life of the party? A great lover? Well-groomed? These are the kinds of qualities that potential matches would love to hear about you.

  3. Be specific: When describing yourself, be specific about what you’re looking for on Ashley Madison and what your expectations are. This will help attract like-minded members and increase your chances of making connections.

  4. Be funny: A little bit of humor can go a long way in making your profile stand out, and showing off your personality. It can also help members who might be overly cautious or shy feel more comfortable messaging you.

    Tip: Remember, what people find funny is subjective. Until you have a handle on who you’re talking to and the type of humor they respond to, try to keep any funny anecdotes or phrases in your profile light and respectful.

  5. Be positive: Nobody likes a Debbie Downer, and your About Me isn’t the place to complain – it’s supposed to attract people and encourage them to connect with you! Avoid negative language or dredging up past relationships, and focus on the positive aspects of your life and what you're looking for in an encounter.

    Tip: Avoid using negative phrases that raise the red flags like "Don't bother messaging me if…,” "I have a low tolerance for nonsense," or "Impress me.” Remember: you catch more flies with honey than you do with vinegar.

  6. Keep it short and direct: Members aren’t here to read a novel. Keep your About Me concise and to the point, highlighting the most compelling information about yourself.

    Tip: When trying to capture someone’s attention in just a few sentences, be as concise as possible. Try stringing together scannable descriptors that let your personality shine through, like “Foodie. Dog lover. Sports fan,” etc.

  7. Proofread: Remember, your dating profile is a reflection of yourself and what you're looking for on Ashley Madison. Take the time to craft a great one, and you'll increase your chances of making connections.


    * The Ashley Madison Member Survey was conducted in March and April of 2023, with the results reflecting the opinions of a small sample of 3,277 Ashley Madison members.

Crafting a Great First Message

We know that writing that opening message to someone you’re interested in can be difficult and intimidating, but it’s the key to getting noticed and standing out.

⚠️ Never share your phone number, banking information, or any other personal information with a stranger.

We recently conducted an Ashley Madison® Member survey* and 43% of responding members said that when they don’t respond to someone, it has something to do with the messages they received. Their reasons included:

  • Not receiving enough messages from someone (22%)

  • The messages weren’t interesting (6%)

  • The messages were vulgar or poorly-written (4%)

To help you write a message that breaks through the clutter and increases your chances of sparking a connection, follow these tips:

  1. Personalize: Take the time to read someone’s profile and reference something that stood out to you. This will show you’re interested – don’t just send a generic message (nothing can kill a conversation faster than “hey”). When you personalize your message, it’s more likely to grab attention and encourage someone to chat with you.

    Try something like: Hi [Username]. I came across your profile and noticed that we both enjoy hiking. Have you been on any great hikes lately? I’m always on the hunt for new trails to explore. Hope to hear back from you soon."

  2. Be respectful: Being polite and respectful right out of the gate is essential to keeping the conversation going. Avoid using inappropriate language or innuendo until you have a read on who you’re talking to and what they like.

  3. Keep it brief: Don't write a long essay in your first message. Keep it short and sweet, and focus on making a good first impression.

    Try something like: Hi [Username]. Your great sense of humor really came through in your profile and made me laugh. Would you be interested in chatting a bit, and hopefully I can return the favor?

  4. Ask questions: Ask Members a question about something they mentioned in their profile, like their profession, hobbies, or interests. This shows that you’re interested in getting to know them better.

    Try something like: Hi [Username]. I’m fascinated by your work in architecture – do you have any interesting projects you’re working on right now? I’d love to hear more about it over coffee sometime. Cheers!

  5. Avoid compliments about appearance (if you can): While we all usually love to be complimented, commenting on someone's appearance in a first message can come across as shallow or insincere. Instead, focus on something they said in their profile that impressed you and compliment that.

    Try something like: Hi [Username], your photo with your dog is really cute! I have a dog too, and love going to the dog park with him. Would you be interested in meeting up for a pup playdate?

  6. Use proper grammar and spelling: A message riddled with typos or incorrect punctuation can prevent someone from responding to you. Make sure your message is free of grammatical and spelling errors to show that you’re taking the time to communicate clearly and effectively.

    Tip: Technology is your friend. If spelling and grammar aren’t your strong suit, leverage apps and programs like Grammarly or Google docs to ensure the messages you’re sending are well-written and polished. Sending an illegible or unpolished message can be a huge turn-off for members.

  7. Be yourself: Don't try to be someone you're not in your message. Be authentic and let your personality shine through. Nothing can sink a conversation faster than realizing who you’re talking to is full of it.


A thoughtful first message can increase your chances of receiving a positive response and starting a conversation with someone who interests you. And remember, a good first message and a complete profile go hand in hand.


*The Ashley Madison Member Survey was conducted in March and April of 2023, with the results reflecting the opinions of a small sample of 3,277 Ashley Madison members.

Crafting Your Profile Greeting

Your profile Greeting is the first thing a member sees when they check out your profile, so it’s important to grab their attention right away. You could think of it as an advertising headline promoting yourself.

  1. Be original: Your Greeting should differentiate you from other members, so avoid using clichéd, overused, or boring phrases. Try to write something unique that showcases your personality.

    Try to avoid generic or non-descriptive Greetings like:

    • "Hey/hi/hello.”

    • "New here."

    • “Curious.

  2. Keep it short and sweet: Your Greeting should be concise and to the point, and ideally no longer than one or two sentences. Avoid using long sentences or paragraphs because they can be overwhelming and difficult to read. Try stringing together scannable descriptors that let your personality shine through, and help you to look self-assured and direct.

    Try something like:

    • “Sweet, funny, ambitious, thoughtful, easy-going.”

    • "Looking for an emotional connection.”

    • “Looking to spice up my life with someone fun.”

  3. Highlight your interests and personality: Your headline should give people an idea of who you are and what interests you. Highlight your hobbies, passions, or unique personality traits to attract like-minded members. Remember: point form is okay and lets you convey a lot of information quickly.

    Try something like:

    • "Adventure seeker with a passion for hiking and travel."

    • "Dynamic. Professional. Looking for some excitement."

    • “Fun and spontaneous: Shoot a message and take a chance!”

  4. Be positive: Don’t use negative or self-deprecating language in your Greeting. Instead, focus on positive aspects of yourself and/or what you're looking for in a connection. Remember: low self-esteem isn’t modesty, it’s a turn-off.

    Avoid Greetings that could be perceived as red flags, like:

    • "I don’t know why I’m here.”

    • "Don’t message me if…"

    • “Feel like lowering your standards and going on a date with me?”

  5. Use (appropriate) humor: A well-placed joke or clever pun can do wonders to catch someone's attention and encourage them to learn more about you. Just make sure that what you write is appropriate, respectful, and doesn't offend anyone.

  6. Lead with a question: Remember, your Greeting is a chance to showcase your personality and convince members to connect with you, so take the time to brainstorm a Greeting that members will find irresistible.


3. Profile Badges & Indicators

Messaging Members with badges increases your chances of a connection.

Active status indicates that a Member is or was recently active on the platform. Members are considered active until they have logged out of their session.

AM Badges identify paying Members and are automatically added after a purchase, showing you're active on Ashley Madison®. Buy Credits →

Collect Badges identify Ashley Madison® Collect Subscribers and are automatically added to profiles post-purchase. Get Collect →

New Badges means that the Member is new and has signed up within the last {X} days.

Prime Badges identify Ashley Madison® Prime subscribers and are automatically added to profiles post-purchase. Get Prime →

Priority Man Badges identify Ashley Madison® Priority Men. This badge is automatically added to your profile when you subscribe to Priority Man. Get Priority Man →

Verified Status: This badge means that the Member has verified their identity with Government-issue ID. Verify Your Profile →


4. Messaging 101

💡 If you can’t find or open a message, it’s likely because the Member has deleted their account, the Member has been suspended, or the message is older than 90 days.

Messages

Use Credits to send messages. You can also attach Private Keys to grant access to your Private Photo Gallery.

Messages Folder

This is where all your conversations live—both messages you’ve sent and replies you’ve received, as well as messages from other Members who have reached out to you.

Sent Folder

Here, you'll find messages you've sent that haven’t received a response yet. Once a Member replies, the conversation moves to your Messages Folder.

Accessing Messages

Desktop Web

  1. Click on Messages

  2. You will see your Messages and Sent folders on the left.

Mobile Web, iOS, and Android

  1. Tap on Messages

  2. Tap on the Folder symbol in the top-right corner

  3. You will see both folders: Messages and Sent.

Attaching Private Keys to Messages


iOS and Android

  1. Go to your Messages

  2. Tap the Paperclip/Key symbol

  3. Select Attach my Private Key.

Web Browser

  1. Go to your Messages

  2. Click on the Key symbol

  3. Select Send Private Key.

Deleted Messages

⚠️ Unfortunately, deleted messages aren’t recoverable.

Deleting Messages

  1. Open the conversation you want to delete

  2. Click the three dots (or Options depending on the device you’re using)

  3. Selecting Delete Conversation.

Quick Reply Messages

Female profiles can send custom or pre-composed automatic replies in response to unreplied Winks and Favorites to help them manage their messages more efficiently. More →

Priority Messages

Priority Messages feature a distinct Priority profile badge and help Members break through inbox clutter by appearing at the top of a recipient’s inbox for extra attention. More →

Collect Messages

Collect Messages let guest Members connect with Full Members when they don’t have enough Credits to initiate contact. Think of it like a collect call—the receiving Member pays the fee. Male Members can't send Collect Messages on Ashley Madison. More →


5. Photos & Photo Settings

💡 Improve your chances of a match by adding a discreet photo—Members with photos get 4x more messages than those without!

Keeping Photos Discreet

Our photo privacy tools help protect your identity while still connecting with other Members:

  1. Crop your photo to conceal sensitive details.

  2. Blur your image to hide your face entirely.

  3. Mask your photo to obscure identifiable features.

  4. Set photos to Private, and only share them with select Members using your Private Key.

Your photos are never shared with third parties. You’re in full control—make your photos private or delete them anytime.

Public Photo Gallery

Photos in your Public Photo Gallery are viewable by any Member. Photos in this gallery can't contain explicit content, or they will be removed.


Content that you should/shouldn’t use it your Public Gallery:

  • Photos that use privacy tools to disguise your face (mask, blur, etc.).

  • Faceless photos, providing you’re fully clothed.

  • Photos of your body where all private areas are fully covered.

  • Nude or sexually explicit photos, including:

    • Full nudity

    • See-through clothing

    • Exposed pelvic regions

    • Sheer lingerie

    • Body paint coverage

    • Sexually suggestive poses.

  • Photos containing illegal or inappropriate content (e.g., weapons, drug paraphernalia, graphic injuries, violence, currency).

  • Photos featuring other people (will be marked as private).

Private Photo Gallery

This is where all of your Private Photos live. Grant access to this Gallery by sending a Private Key, or by enabling Automatic Private Key Exchange.

Photos not suitable for your Public Gallery will be marked as either Private or Explicit. Private Photos typically include soft nudity (like see-through clothing, sheer lingerie, sexually suggestive poses, etc.).

Private Gallery photos aren’t accessible unless you grant someone your Private Key, and you’re in full control of who you share access with.

Managing Photos

💡 Photos upload to your Public Gallery by default. If you want to upload photos to your Private Gallery, tap the Public button beside Save to toggle to Private before saving your changes.

Adding Photos

💡 If Make this photo public is enabled, your photo will be added to your Public Gallery. To keep it private, simply uncheck this option before uploading.

iOS and Android

  1. Tap on Profile

  2. Tap on the camera symbol

  3. Take a new photo, or upload from your library

  4. Select your photo

  5. Tap Next

  6. Disguise your photo if desired

  7. Tap Next

  8. Then Use this photo

Web Browser

  1. Click on Profile;

  2. Scroll down to Photo Gallery

  3. Click Add

  4. Choose to take a new photo, or upload from your library

  5. Select the photo

  6. Disguise your photo if desired

  7. Click Save

Editing Photos

Photo editing is currently only supported in a web browser:

  1. Go to Profile

  2. Scroll down to Photo Gallery

  3. Select the photo you want to edit

  4. Click on the three dots [⋯] in the top-right corner

  5. Select Edit photo

  6. Disguise your photo

Deleting Photos

iOS and Android

  1. Tap the menu [☰] in the top-left corner

  2. Then on Settings

  3. Then Manage photos

  4. Select the photo to delete

  5. Tap on the three dots [⋯]

  6. Select Delete

Web Browser

  1. Click on Profile

  2. Scroll down to Photo Gallery

  3. Click Edit

  4. Select the photo to delete

  5. Click Delete photo

  6. Then Save

Photo Guidelines

Connect with confidence at Ashley Madison. Our photo guidelines are designed to help you showcase your personality, interests, and style while maintaining a safe and respectful community.

By following these simple rules, you'll be able to connect with like-minded individuals and experience the freedom to be yourself.

  • Photos must have you in them, which means no stock images, AI-generated photos, celebrities, objects, pets, landscapes, etc.

  • Photos can’t contain personal information or logos. This includes email addresses, phone numbers, social media handles, and watermarks.

  • Photos can’t be sourced from third parties, like other Ashley Madison Members or copyrighted content (e.g., photos taken from social media or with visible watermarks).

  • Photos can’t depict minors. This includes family photos, childhood pictures, and any images where minors are visible (even in the background).

⚠️ Restricted Content

  • Displays of violence, violent gestures, or gruesome imagery

  • Depictions of criminal activity and/or drug use

  • Racist or hate imagery.

Managing Adult Content/Explicit Photos

Private Photos typically contain adult content. Manage your settings to reflect your preference when receiving photos from other Members.

iOS and Android

  1. Tap on the menu [☰] in the top left corner

  2. Then on Settings

  3. Then Profile Options

  4. Enable or disable Rated Photos.

Web Browser

  1. Click on the menu [☰] in the top-left corner

  2. Then on Settings

  3. Then Account

  4. Enable or Disable View Explicit Photos

⚠️ All new photos are queued for approval. Photos are generally approved within one (1) to four (4) hours. However, approvals can take up to 24 hours during peak periods, weekends, or holidays.

Managing Private Photos

Private Photos are photos that are typically spicy in nature, and Members have full control over who they share them with.

To send your private photos to a specific Member, you need to share your Private Key to access your Private Photo Gallery. More →


6. Searching with Filters

💡 For the Search location to work, you must search by city. If you enter a ZIP code, country, or state, the system will not recognize it.

To help customize your search results and find what you’re looking for even faster, you can use the Filters tool located in the top-right corner of the Discover page.

Basic Search Filters

  • Age

  • Location

  • Distance

  • Relationship status

  • Public or Private Photos available

  • Last login

  • New Members only.

Advanced Search Filters

To use advanced search filters, select More in the Search Filters menu, and you can filter by:

  • Preferred body type

  • Height

  • Ethnic background

  • Language

  • Your limits

After selecting your filters, select Apply in the bottom-right corner.

Search results consist of a random selection of Members matching your search criteria. Occasionally, search may not return any results. In this case, you may want to adjust your criteria.

⚠️ For security reasons, the Search by Nickname feature has been permanently removed and is no longer available.


7. Emails & Push Notifications

⚠️ Usage-based email notifications (like payment receipts) and surveys can't be disabled.

Members control which account-level messages and email notifications they want to receive, including notifications for:

👀 Viewed Me: Receive emails when someone’s been checking you out

💬 New Messages: Receive emails when you have inbox activity

🆕 New Members: Receive emails when new Members sign up in your area

❤️ Favorite logins: Receive emails when someone you’ve favorited logs in

Marketing messages: Receive emails for special offers and promotions

Managing Emails

iOS and Android

  1. Click on the menu in the top-left corner

  2. Then on Contact Options

Web Browser

  1. Click on the menu [☰] in the top-left corner

  2. Then on Settings

  3. Then Notifications

  4. Select which notifications you’d like to receive

Managing Push Notifications

💡 Push notifications are not sent if a Member is logged out of Ashley Madison.

Push notifications, when enabled, are sent whether the Ashley Madison app is active or running in the background.

iOS

Enabling Push Notifications on iOS

  1. On your iOS device, open the Settings app

  2. Scroll down and tap Notifications

  3. Select the Ashley Madison app

  4. Toggle on Allow Notifications (Toggle will turn green)

  5. Optional: Customize how you would like to receive notifications. Options include:

    1. Alert Style: Choose where the notifications will appear (Lock Screen, Notification Center, or as Banners).

    2. Sounds: Turn on/off sound for notifications.

    3. Badges: Display a badge on the app icon to show the number of notifications.

    4. Preview Options: You can also choose how you want previews to appear (Always, When Unlocked, or Never), which controls when the content of a notification is visible on your screen.

Disabling Push Notifications on iOS

  1. On your iOS device, open the Settings app

  2. Scroll down and tap Notifications

  3. Select the Ashley Madison app

  4. Toggle off Allow Notifications (Toggle will turn gray)

Managing Scheduled Push Notifications on iOS

iOS’s Scheduled Summary feature lets you receive notifications at chosen times throughout the day instead of immediately as they come in:

  1. On your iOS device, open the Settings app

  2. Scroll down and tap Notifications

  3. Toggle on Scheduled Summary (Toggle will turn green);

  4. iOS will guide you through customizing a schedule. You can select specific times when you’d like to receive a summary of notifications; and

  5. Toggle the Ashley Madison app (Toggle will turn green).

Once set up, notifications from Ashley Madison will be batched and delivered according to your chosen schedule—which means no unexpected notifications from Members throughout the day.

Using Stealth Mode on iOS

Please note that Stealth Mode is not available on Android devices.

  1. On your iOS device, open the Ashley Madison app

  2. Select Stealth from the bottom navigation bar

  3. Choose an icon to disguise the Ashley Madison app icon

  4. Customize your notification message to replace default Ashley Madison notifications

  5. Toggle on Mute push notifications (Toggle will turn green) to prevent push notifications from being delivered to your device

Toggle on Require Face ID on startup (Toggle will turn green) for added discretion.

Android

Enabling Push Notifications on Android

  1. On your Android device, open the Settings app

  2. Scroll down and tap Notifications or Apps & notifications (exact wording may vary depending on your device);

  3. Select the Ashley Madison app to open its notification settings;

  4. Toggle on All Ashley Madison Notifications;

  5. Select which push notifications you want and don’t want to receive (Actions, Chat replies, New chats, and Allow notification)

Disabling Push Notifications on Android

  1. On your Android device, open the Settings app

  2. Scroll down and tap Notifications or Apps & notifications (exact wording may vary depending on your device)

  3. Select the Ashley Madison app to open its notification settings

  4. Toggle off All Ashley Madison Notifications.


8. Managing Features

Private Keys

Private Keys unlock access to your Private Photo Gallery.

💡 To send Private Keys, you need least one active/visible photo in your Private Photo Gallery. You can revoke access at any time.

Attaching Private Keys to Messages

iOS and Android

  1. Go to your Messages

  2. Tap the Paperclip/Key symbol

  3. Select Attach my Private Key

Web Browser

  1. Go to your Messages

  2. Click on the Key symbol

  3. Select Send Private Key

Revoking Private Keys

iOS and Android

  1. Tap on the menu [☰] in the top-left corner

  2. Then tap on Settings

  3. Then Keys Sent

  4. Revoke the keys

Web Browser

  1. Click on the menu [☰] in the top-left corner

  2. Then on Settings

  3. Then Security and Privacy

  4. Then Private Keys Sent

  5. Revoke the keys


Private Key Requests

Private Key Requests are sent to Members requesting that they share access to their Private Photo Gallery.

💡 Sending a Private Key request does not guarantee that a Member will share their private photos with you.


Automatic Private Key Exchange

Automatic Private Key Exchange automatically shares your personal Private Key with any Member who shares theirs with you first, so they can quickly access your Private Photo Gallery.

💡 This exchange happens only with Members who share their key with you. If either you or the other Member revokes access, the automatic key exchange is disabled, and access will need to be granted manually moving forward.

Managing Automatic Private Key Exchange

iOS and Android

  1. Tap on the menu [☰] in the top-left corner

  2. Then tap Settings

  3. Then on Profile Options

  4. Enable or disable Automatic Private Key Exchange

Web Browser

  1. Click on the menu [☰] in the top-left corner

  2. Then click on Settings

  3. Then Security & Privacy

  4. Enable or disable Auto Private Key Exchange.


Priority Messages

💡 By default, all messages on Ashley Madison are sent with Priority Message.

Priority Messages feature a distinct Priority profile badge and help Members break through inbox clutter by appearing at the top of a recipient’s inbox for extra attention.

To see the cost of Priority Messages, start a new message and click the icon to the left of the message input box.

Managing Priority Messages

iOS and Android

  1. Tap on the menu [☰] in the top left corner

  2. Then on Settings

  3. Then Profile Options

  4. Enable or disable Priority Messages

Web Browser

  1. Click on the menu [☰] in the top-left corner

  2. Then on Settings

  3. Then Account

  4. Enable or disable Send all messages priority.

Alternatively, you can also manually deselect this option on the messaging screen each time you compose your message.


Auto Credit Top-Up

💡 Our introductory 100-Credit package is not eligible for Auto Credit Top-Up. If this was your last purchase, your account will be topped up with the 200-Credit package.

Auto Credit Top-Up automatically tops up your Credits when you have 12 or less remaining with your most recent Credit package purchased (unless as noted above).

Managing Auto Credit Top-Up

iOS and Android

You can’t disable this feature from either of these platforms, so please follow the instructions below.

Web Browser

  1. Click on the menu [☰] in the top-left corner

  2. Then on Settings

  3. Then Account

  4. Click on Purchases

  5. Enable or Disable Auto Credit Top-Up


Collect Messages

💡 To read or respond to any messages, you must be a Full Member.

Collect Messages let guest Members connect with Full Members when they don’t have enough Credits to initiate contact. Think of it like a collect call—the receiving Member pays the fee. Male Members cannot send Collect Messages on Ashley Madison®.

If you receive a Collect Message:

  1. Cost: 5 Credits to view, plus additional Credits to reply.

  2. After your reply, all regular messages between you and that Member are free (Priority Messages not included).

  3. You can ignore the message and instead view the sender’s profile. If interested, send your own message for the standard initial contact cost.

Maximizing Credits

  1. Before accepting a Collect Message, take a moment to review the sender’s profile. If it’s blank or doesn’t catch your interest, think carefully about whether it’s worth spending your Credits.

  2. If you like the profile but want to save Credits, you can ignore or delete the Collect Message and send the Member a message yourself. This way, you’ll only pay for the initial contact, and all future non-Priority Messages between you will be free.

  3. If you accept the message but suspect the Member may be fraudulent, report the profile using the Report option or email us at [email protected]. If we find a violation of our Terms, we’ll investigate and refund your Credits for that contact under our Credit Back Promise.


Quick Replies

Female profiles can send custom or pre-composed automatic replies in response to unreplied Winks and Favorites to help them manage their messages more efficiently.

Managing Quick Replies (females only)

iOS and Android

  1. Tap on the menu [☰] in the top left corner

  2. Then on Settings

  3. Select Quick Reply Settings

  4. Select or deselect Don't Use Quick Reply.

Web Browser

  1. Click on the menu [☰] in the top-left corner

  2. Then click on Settings

  3. Then Notifications

  4. Then Quick Reply Settings

  5. Choose the message you want to send/edit

  6. Enable or disable the toggle

  7. Click Save


Local Match Messages

💡 Local Match Messages aren’t personalized and don’t imply that you have shown specific interest in any of the Members receiving these notifications.

Local Match Messages are pre-composed messages automatically sent on a Member’s behalf about potential matches.

Managing Local Match Messages

Sending Local Match Messages (females only)

iOS and Android

  1. Click on the menu [☰] in the top-left corner

  2. Then tap on Settings

  3. Then Profile Options

  4. Enable or disable Send local match messages

Web Browser

  1. Click on the menu [☰] in the top-left corner

  2. Then on Settings

  3. Then Security & Privacy

  4. Enable or disable Contact Potential Matches for Me

Receiving Local Match Messages (males only)

iOS and Android

  1. Click on the menu [☰] in the top-left corner

  2. Then tap on Settings

  3. Then Profile Options

  4. Enable or disable Receive new local match messages

Web Browser

  1. Click on the menu [☰] in the top-left corner

  2. Then on Settings

  3. Then Notifications

  4. Enable or disable New Local Match messages.


9. Credits

⚠️When you delete your profile, any remaining Credits in your account will be forfeited. More →

Credits are used to send Messages (including Priority Messages), Winks, and Private Key Requests. Buy Now →

Credit Balance

To view your current Credit balance:

iOS and Android

  1. Tap on the menu [☰] in the top-left corner

  2. Then on Settings

  3. Select Credit History

Web Browser

  1. Click on the menu [☰] in the top-left corner

  2. Then on Settings

  3. Then Account

  4. Select on Purchases

  5. Your Credit balance appears at the top of the page

Transactions

To view your Credit transactions:

iOS and Android

  1. Tap on the menu [☰] in the top left corner

  2. Then tap on Settings

  3. Then Credit History

  4. View Transactions

Web Browser

  1. Click on the menu [☰] in the top-left corner

  2. Then on Settings

  3. Then Account

  4. Select Purchases to see your Credit transactions

Credit-Back Promise

Encountering a fraudulent profile is frustrating enough—there’s no need to involve Credits.

We have your back with our Credit-Back Promise: If you interact with a profile that is later confirmed to be fraudulent and suspended, we’ll fully refund all Credits used. No hassle, no questions asked.

Administrator Credits

Administrator Credits seen on your Credit Usage page are credits that have been returned to your account, and are indicated by a [+] symbol.

Any and all Credits used to interact with profiles which are later suspended will be automatically refunded to you in full (you can find them in your Account → Settings → Purchases → Purchase History as Administrator Credits).

Credits + Account Deletion

When you delete your account, you'll receive a warning confirming that you want to proceed and forfeit any remaining Credits.

If you click Agree, your Credits will be permanently lost.

However, if you choose to deactivate instead, your Credits will be held for 12 months and can be reinstated by contacting Customer Service—provided you log in at least once during that period. Accounts that remain inactive for 12 months are automatically deleted for security reasons and cannot be restored.

Auto Credit-Top Up

Auto Credit Top-Up automatically tops up your Credits when you have 12 or less remaining with the most recent Credit package purchased* More →


10. Purchasing Subscriptions

On Discover (Ashley Preferred, Ashley Prime, Priority Man)

  1. Go to Discover

  2. Select the Product banner (Preferred, Prime Priority Man)

  3. Follow the payment instructions

  4. Confirm your purchase

  5. Start enjoying your benefits

With a Credit Purchase

  1. Web: Go to Buy Credits / App: Choose Upgrade

  2. Select a Credit package

  3. Select your payment method, follow the instructions

  4. Review your purchase, ensuring all information is correct

  5. You will be prompted with a subscription offer

  6. Select Buy and confirm your purchase

  7. Submit your payment

  8. Start enjoying your benefits

When you complete your purchase, you’ll be charged for the first month (unless enjoying a free trial), and your subscription will be activated, authorizing automatic monthly payments moving forward. To cancel your subscription, simply visit the Purchases page.

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