A guide to safe online dating
If you're looking to give online dating a go, there are a few considerations to keep in mind when it comes to meeting new people and dating safely.
Whether you meet someone through an online dating profile or walking your dog down at the local park, it’s important to protect yourself and date safely. While most people will have the same intentions as you – to meet the next love of their life – others may look to take advantage of a lonely soul, so act with caution and don’t give away your heart too easily.
When it comes to getting back into the dating game, here’s what you need to know to play it safe.
Take caution with your personal details
If someone you connect with online starts asking for your bank details or to be sent money transfers, stop communication with them. You should always act with caution when it comes to personal information, such as your banking details or home address. When you’re just starting to get to know a new person, it’s best to act with caution.
They may turn out to be one of the loveliest, most genuine people you’ve ever met, but it’s best to be sure. If you’re ever uncertain about giving away information, ask family and friends. They have your best interests at heart.
Trust your instincts
Go forward with care if a person starts asking you inappropriate questions or asking for personal information. If you’re talking to someone online or over the phone, and you start to feel wary of what they’re saying or asking, consider ending the communication. Dating online should be safe and fun, so be careful and you’ll enjoy the experience much more.
Remember to log off
For those signing or logging into their online dating profile in a library or internet cafe, always remember to log out when you finish. You don’t want someone to use the computer after you and be privy to the information contained in your account settings. If you sign in to your profile on your own laptop using a wi-fi connection, this should be fine, but it’s always good to get into the habit of logging out.
Don’t rush into that first meeting
You may be getting on with someone you met through your online profile very well and want to meet for that all important first date, but it’s crucial not to rush into a meeting. While it may feel right, take your time. Get to the know the person very well, see if you have any mutual friends in common or even ask them if they belong to any local clubs or communities. You can then get a more well-rounded view of the person outside of their online profile.
First date success
It’s time. You feel ready to meet your online match in person and to go on your very first date after communicating with them over email and phone. While you may feel like you can trust them, especially after communicating for over a long period of time, it still pays to be cautious.
Choose a public place you know well and at a time you feel comfortable with. You could schedule a first meeting as a lunch date when you know there will be other people around. Another key consideration is using your own transportation to ensure you have the freedom and flexibility to go home when you want to. All of these factors put you in control of your own safety.
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