Security & Protection
Personal safety, emergency numbers and protection against attacks.
Questions in this area
What to do if you are assaulted or raped?
Call the police (117) or paramedics (144) immediately - even as a sex worker you have the full protection of criminal law (Art. 189/190 StGB, Federal Court decision 2017). If you don't want to call the police directly: Aspasie (Geneva), Xenia (Bern), FIZ (Zurich) and ProCoRe will accompany you anonymously, confidentially and free of charge. If possible, do not wash traces, store clothing, have injuries documented by a doctor - even without filing a criminal complaint.
How do I protect my identity and privacy?
Strictly separate work and private life: separate phone with prepaid SIM, artist name, separate bank details (postal account / Neon / Yuh are discreet), no profile photos that can be found in Google image search (mirroring/cropping images before uploading, deleting EXIF data). Check reverse image search for your own images regularly. WhatsApp obfuscation tools like ContactGuard help protect the real number.
How often should I get STI tests and where?
Recommendation of the checkpoints and SEXUAL HEALTH SWITZERLAND: a complete screening every 3 months (HIV, syphilis, gonorrhea, chlamydia, hepatitis B/C). Free or cheap tests at: Checkpoint Zurich/Geneva/Lausanne/Basel/Lugano, Aspasie Geneva, Xenia Bern, women's emergency telephone. In the event of sexual risk exposure, additional PEP within 48 hours (hospital emergency room). HPV vaccination is also recommended.
How do I identify potentially dangerous customers?
Warning signs: aggressive greeting, negative response to security questions, attempt to negotiate agreed prices/practices, alcohol/drug behavior, refusal to show identity, "cash only, no receipt" pressure. Security best practices: Request a preliminary telephone conversation, real name and hotel name for outcalls, inform backup person of appointment ("buddy system"), agree on emergency code word, track appointment in app (Find My / Google Maps Sharing).
More topics
Law & Permits
Obligation to obtain a permit, restricted areas, cantonal differences in Switzerland.
Taxes & Social Security
Tax liability, AHV registration and accounting for sex workers.
Work practice
Advertising, pricing, house rules and dealing with customers.
Migration & Residence
EU/EFTA, third countries, reporting requirement for foreign sex workers.
These answers are general information and do not replace individual legal advice. If you have specific questions, contact a specialist office (see contact points) or a lawyer.