Over 40 million Americans are using online dating services or dating apps. However, many people are unaware of the dangers that can come with meeting someone online. Here are some safety tips to keep in mind when using online dating services or dating apps:
Contents
- 1. Use a Trustworthy Site or APP
- 2. Create a Separate Email Address
- 3. Be Careful About What You Share
- 4. Keep in Kind That Dating Apps Don’t Investigate Users’ Backgroud or Criminal Histories
- 5. Use Common Sense
- 6. Report Suspicious Activity to the Dating App or Service
- 7. Video Chat First Before You Meet Up in Person
- 8. Meet in a Public Place for Your First Date
- 9. Tell a Friend or Family Member about Your Plans
- 10. Don’t Take the Car or Home of Someone You Just Met
- 11. Stay Sober
- 12. Trust Your Gut
- Final Thought
1. Use a Trustworthy Site or APP
There are many reputable online dating sites and apps, but there are also some that are not so trustworthy. It is important to do some research on the site or app you are using to make sure it is legitimate. You can also look for reviews of the site or app online to see what other people’s experiences have been.
2. Create a Separate Email Address
When you are creating an account on an online dating site or app, it is best to create a separate email address just for that purpose. This way, if you start getting spam or unwanted messages from someone, you can easily block them and not have to worry about them contacting you through your main email address.
When creating your profile, be sure to only include information that you are comfortable sharing with others. For example, you may want to avoid sharing your full name, address, or other personal details.
Remember that people you meet online may not be who they seem, and they could use the information you share to harm you. It is also important to be careful about the photos you use. Make sure they are photos that you are comfortable with other people seeing.
4. Keep in Kind That Dating Apps Don’t Investigate Users’ Backgroud or Criminal Histories
When signing up for a dating app, you may be asked to provide some personal information, such as your name, age, and location. The app will then create a profile for you based on this information.
However, the app does not typically investigate the background or criminal history of its users. This means that you could be matched with someone who has a criminal record or who is not who they say they are.
5. Use Common Sense
When using online dating services or dating apps, it is important to use common sense. If something seems too good to be true, it probably is. Be cautious of people who try to move the conversation off of the app or website you are using and onto another platform, such as email or text message. Also, be wary of anyone who asks for personal information or money before meeting in person.
6. Report Suspicious Activity to the Dating App or Service
If you come across a profile or message that seems suspicious, be sure to report it to the dating app or service you are using. By doing so, you can help to keep other users safe.
7. Video Chat First Before You Meet Up in Person
Before meeting someone in person, you should first get to know them better by video chatting with them online or over the phone. This will help you to see if they are who they say they are and if you have anything in common. Once you feel comfortable with the person, you can then arrange to meet up in person.
8. Meet in a Public Place for Your First Date
When meeting someone for the first time, it is important to meet in a public place. This will help to ensure your safety in case the person you are meeting is not who they say they are. If possible, try to choose a place where there will be other people around, such as a restaurant or bar.
9. Tell a Friend or Family Member about Your Plans
Before meeting someone for a date, it is important to tell a friend or family member about your plans. This way, someone will know where you are and will be able to check on you if you do not return home when expected.
10. Don’t Take the Car or Home of Someone You Just Met
If you are meeting someone for the first time, it is important to not take their car or go to their home. This is because you do not know this person and they could be dangerous. If possible, try to arrange your own transportation to and from the date.
11. Stay Sober
It is important to stay sober on your date so that you can be aware of your surroundings and make good decisions. If you drink alcohol, be sure to do so in moderation. And, if you feel like you are in danger, do not hesitate to call for help.
12. Trust Your Gut
If something about the person you are meeting makes you feel uneasy, it is important to trust your gut and walk away. There is no shame in ending a date early if you feel like you are in danger.
Final Thought
Following these safety tips can help to keep you safe when using online dating services or dating apps. However, it is important to remember that no one can 100% guarantee your safety. If you are ever in doubt, trust your gut and walk away.
