Question 1

How do I create an account?

Accepted Answer

Download the HowzitUK app from the App Store or Google Play, then tap 'Get Started'. You can sign in with your Google or Apple account, or register with your email address. Onboarding takes about 2 minutes.

Question 2

Is HowzitUK free to use?

Accepted Answer

Yes — HowzitUK is completely free to download and use. All core features (finding SA locals, messaging, events, Newcomers Guide) are included at no cost. We may introduce optional premium features in the future, but the community features will always be free.

Question 3

Is my personal data safe?

Accepted Answer

Absolutely. We take privacy seriously. Your full name is only visible to users you've connected with as friends. Your postcode is never shown publicly — we only display your general area (e.g., 'SW London'). Read our Privacy Policy for full details.

Question 4

Can I control who sees my profile?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Your profile is visible to other HowzitUK users for discovery purposes, but sensitive details (full name, exact location, contact info) are only shared with mutual connections. You can block or remove any user at any time.

Question 5

How do I connect with another user?

Accepted Answer

Browse the Discover screen to find SA locals near you. Tap on a profile and hit 'Add Friend'. The other person will receive a friend request notification and can accept or decline. Once both of you accept, you can chat.

Question 6

How do I report a user or abusive content?

Accepted Answer

Tap the three-dot menu on any profile or message and select 'Report'. Our trust & safety team reviews all reports within 24–48 hours. For urgent safety concerns, email safety@howzituk.app directly.

Question 7

I forgot my password. What do I do?

Accepted Answer

On the login screen, tap 'Forgot password?' and enter your email address. You'll receive a reset link within a few minutes. If you signed in with Google or Apple, use those services' account recovery flows instead.

Question 8

How do I delete my account?

Accepted Answer

Go to Profile → Settings → Account → Delete Account. This will permanently remove your profile, messages, and all personal data within 30 days, in accordance with our Privacy Policy.

Question 9

Why can't I find other South Africans near me?

Accepted Answer

HowzitUK is growing! If your area has fewer users, try expanding your search radius or browsing the events feed — you might find SA expats commuting from further away. Consider inviting friends to join.

Question 10

How do I create an event?

Accepted Answer

In the Events tab, tap the '+' button. Add a title, description, date/time, and location. Your event will be visible to other nearby HowzitUK users.

Question 11

The app is crashing or behaving strangely. What should I do?

Accepted Answer

First, try closing and re-opening the app, then check for updates in the App Store or Google Play. If the problem persists, email bugs@howzituk.app with your device model, OS version, and a description of what happened.

Question 12

Do you have a web version?

Accepted Answer

Not yet — HowzitUK is currently a mobile-first app available on iOS and Android. A web companion may be added in a future update.

Support

Get in touch

Email support

Bug reports

Contact form

Safety & Trust

Frequently Asked Questions

Still need help?