Wondering, “Should I use my real name on Hinge?” Short answer: yes. It keeps things simple, honest, and way less awkward down the line. You don’t need your full name—first name is plenty—and you can still control what’s visible on your profile.
TL;DR
- Use your real first name for trust and smoother conversations; a nickname or initial is OK if privacy’s a concern.
- Hinge profiles show first names in Discover/Standouts; last names are optional and user-controlled.
- You can edit your name (and hide other details) in Settings → Edit Profile → Vitals.
- For extra safety, use Selfie Verification and features like Block People I Know.
- Hinge continues to expand safety features and guidelines in 2025.
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Does Hinge Show Your Full Name When You Match?
Swiping about on Hinge, you’ll only see first names. Hinge lets you edit your “Name” in your profile, and many people stick to first name only. If you added a last name in the past, you can remove or change it in your profile settings.
When you match, your match still sees the name you’ve set on your profile—no secret last names appear out of nowhere. If you only provided a first name, that’s all they’ll see. (Which is good, because surprise surnames would be freaky.)
Including more identifying info can create a sense of trust and kick-start conversation—but it’s your call. If privacy is the priority, stick to your first name and use Hinge’s safety tools.
Can You Change Your First Name On Hinge?
The short answer is yes—you can change your first name on Hinge (and remove or change a last name you previously added).
To edit your name (iOS or Android):
- Open the Hinge app and tap your Photo Icon (bottom right).
- Tap the Pencil icon to edit your profile.
- Scroll to Vitals and tap Name to update it.
- Use the visibility toggles to control what shows.
- Tap the back arrow <, then Done to save.
I hope I don’t need to tell you this, but if you change your name to something wild, wacky, and nothing to do with your actual name, you may end up driving potential matches away by seeming a little too mysterious. But maybe that’s what you want? Maybe that’s your first test of compatibility?
Are There Fake Names On Hinge?
Since it’s so easy to change a name, yes—there are fake names on Hinge. There are fake profiles on every dating app, but Hinge actively moderates and now uses Selfie Verification, a quick video selfie that earns you a verification badge. It’s optional, but it boosts trust and cuts down on catfishing nonsense.
As for fake names, what counts as fake? Some people go by initials or a nickname, but that’s not really fake. If someone is called FaceyMcFace or something, that’s a red flag. Otherwise, a fake name seems pointless if you’re using real photos! And if you’re also using fake photos? Well, that’s just a straight-up fake account.
The truth is, all dating apps and sites have a few catfishing idiots. You simply have to remain aware of things seeming too good to be true, users sounding like bots, and other red flags. If you’re worried about being “too searchable,” you can keep your first name only, hide certain fields, block contacts you know, and verify your profile to build trust without oversharing.
And if you’re looking for a more secure site? Why not take Dude Hack’s quick quiz to find the perfect app for you? I’m guessing it will be something grown-up and paywalled!
FAQs
Should I use my real first name or a nickname?
Use your real first name if you can—it feels trustworthy and makes moving offline smoother. If privacy’s a big concern, a nickname or initial is fine; you can share your full name once you’re comfortable.
Does Hinge ever show my last name automatically?
No. Hinge shows your first name on profile cards. Any last name you add is optional and controlled by you.
How do I change or fix my name on Hinge?
Go to your profile → tap the Pencil icon → scroll to Vitals → Name. Update it, adjust what’s visible, back out, and tap Done.
How can I reduce stalking or oversharing risk while still getting matches?
Keep only your first name visible, hide searchable fields (like your workplace), and use “Block People I Know” to prevent specific contacts from seeing you. Selfie Verification builds trust without sharing extra details.
What’s Selfie Verification and should I do it?
It’s a quick video selfie that earns a verified badge. It makes your profile look legit and helps reduce catfish worries—definitely worth doing.
I’m new—why does my profile say “New Here”?
That’s a temporary badge for brand-new members. It sits next to your name for about a week to help you get noticed faster.
