Over 50 million people in the United States engage in online dating services or apps like tinder. When choosing a partner, whether online or offline, it’s always a good idea to have a few online dating safety tips.
Even users who choose safe online dating are not introduced to thorough background checks. Thus it is up to them to decide whether or not they feel comfortable meeting for the first time with someone.
The following are some safe dating protection steps you may take to ensure your safety when using online dating apps and services.
1. Go with a new photo
Consider whatever you share, whether your profile images or those sent to people you’re talking to. On your profile, select various photos that are not published elsewhere. It will be simple for someone to locate you on social media if your profile picture features an image that also appears on your Instagram or Twitter accounts.
2. If something is suspicious, it probably is
The user you matched with may be fake if he has no bio, no connected social media profiles, and has only uploaded one photo. When you choose to interact with somebody you know very little about, you should proceed with caution.
3. Background check
Take a look at your possible partner’s social media profiles. Try looking up your match’s name or social media usernames. If you have standard connections on social media, make sure they aren’t trying to seduce you by creating a fake social media profile to construct their dating profile.
4. Google is your friend
Try Googling what you already know about them, plus a Google image search to check if their picture is featured elsewhere. That’s an intelligent method to figure them out ahead of time. And this isn’t some strange stalking activity. It’s perfectly reasonable, and they’re most likely doing the same on you.
5. Trust your gut
If something isn’t quite right, your heart will tell you. If something doesn’t feel right, it’s probably because it isn’t what it appears to be. Trust your intuition and proceed with caution until you’ve had enough chance to get to know somebody. And if you’re still unsure, get guidance from a trusted friend.
6. Let the first date be more casual
It’s more optimal to leave a meeting over coffee or a cocktail than if you’ve agreed to a sit-down supper. On the other hand, you may easily continue and extend it into dinner at a restaurant if it goes smoothly.
7. Stay in public
Always meet in a public location. Never gather at their house or offer them to come to yours; instead, choose a place where there will be a significant number of people and where you will have phone service. It’s also a great idea to meet someplace you’re familiar with so you can figure out how to get home if it’s not working out.
8. Tell a friend
Ascertain that someone is aware that you are on a date and where you will be. Furthermore, try to text that person if the plan changes or keep updated on how things are going. You should also inform them whenever the date has ended.
9. Be your driver
Allowing your date to pick you up or drop you off may not be the best choice. Prepare your trip arrangements ahead of time, and if they volunteer, thank them and tell them you’ll find your route.
10. Avoid their accommodations
If you live a long distance apart, you must take extra caution when traveling to visit them. Keep the location concealed by staying in a hotel.
You may feel that you know them well and have developed a relationship with them, but choosing to stay with them is not a good move.
11. Leave if you feel like it
You are free to leave at any time. The much more important thing is to stay safe if you’re concerned. Explain to them you’re sick and make your apologies if you’re uncomfortable or ashamed about leaving.
If you’re not attracted to somebody, don’t feel obligated to continue with them.
12. Block and report suspicious users
Suspicious behaviors:
· Money-related requests
· Messages that are abusive, disrespectful, or threatening
· Suddenly vanishes off the website, only to reappearance under a new identity
· Vulgar images
· Attempts to offer you goods or services.
13. Don’t reveal personal information right away
Matchmaking apps and sites would never send an email requesting your login and password details, so if you receive one, delete it and consider filing a complaint.
14. Don’t agree to monetary request
Never react to a demand to transfer funds, especially internationally or via western union, no matter how reasonable and urgent the explanation may appear. If you receive such a request, please report it.
15. Evaluate the consequences
Before agreeing to meet with anyone, do as much investigation as possible, trust your judgment, and make educated choices.
It is vital to remember that if you are sexually assaulted or violently assaulted while dating online or through an app, this is not your fault.
And these were our takes on how to stay safe when online dating.
Since there are many unknown factors, online dating may be a risky undertaking. As a result, you’ll want to make sure the software you choose has some built-in security protections for online dating safety.