Help, feedback & FAQ
How can we help?
For a question, idea, bug report, or anything else, simply email hello@penpalinternational.net. No contact form, no ticket number.
Is Penpal International free?
Yes. It is free to join and use. The site is supported by donations only for now; there is no subscription or paid membership.
What is a pen pal?
A pen pal is someone you get to know through written messages, often from another place, culture, or walk of life. The point is thoughtful conversation rather than fast matching or endless scrolling.
Is there an Android app?
An Android version is being worked on. A test version is expected soon. Until then, the website works on phones, tablets, and computers.
What is ppi.searchy.net?
ppi.searchy.net was the original web address for Penpal International. The project is now being revived under its own domain, penpalinternational.net, with the same idea of helping people build meaningful pen-pal conversations around the world.
How do messages work?
Open a member’s profile and choose “Write a message.” Conversations are private to the two participants. You can block a member if you do not want further contact, and you can delete a conversation from your own view.
How does moderation work?
Members can report a profile or conversation. We also use limited automated safety checks to help identify spam, scams, and unsafe links. Reports and checks are signals for review; they are not a replacement for human judgment.
Accounts that seriously or repeatedly break the community rules may be restricted or banned. A ban hides the profile and conversations from members and stops sign-in, password resets, and new messages. The account data is retained so a decision can be reviewed rather than permanently erased by mistake.
What should I do about a scammer or spammer?
Do not reply. Do not open unfamiliar links, send money, share passwords, identity documents, or other sensitive information. Use the profile or conversation controls to block the member and report them.
Reports give us the information needed to investigate and act more quickly, especially when they include the relevant conversation. Blocking stops that member from contacting you while the report is reviewed.
Can I appeal a ban or moderation decision?
Yes. Email hello@penpalinternational.net with “Moderation appeal” in the subject, the email address used for the account, and any context that may help us review the decision.
I cannot sign in. What should I do?
If you use an email-and-password account, try resetting your password. If you created the account with Google, use “Continue with Google” on the login page. If that does not solve it, email us.
How can I give feedback or suggest an improvement?
Email hello@penpalinternational.net. Short notes are welcome; screenshots and a description of what you expected are especially useful for bugs.
How do I delete my account?
When signed in, open Account → Delete account. If you cannot access your account, email us from the account’s email address where possible.
Do you sell or share my information?
No. Penpal International does not sell personal information or share it with advertisers or data brokers.
Profile information you choose to add—including your name, location, languages, interests, introduction, and photos—is publicly visible on the site so other people can decide whether they would like to write to you. Your email address, password, and private messages are not public. Read the Privacy Policy for more detail.