Online dating has opened up avenues to fresh relationships and wonderful possibilities. No doubt a fantastic and fulfilling activity, but keeping oneself safe while doing it is of utmost importance. Some measures taken into account may keep one mindful enough to enjoy online dating with minimal risk.
1. Personal Information should not be Revealed
Don’t tell that person where you work, live, or place you usually frequent when you are just starting talking to them. For instance, my friend Sarah – who actually told someone she just met online about the café she visited every day – observed the person hanging there, waiting as if invited. It would be good to share personal information after a healthy dose of trust is built. Best off continue using the app’s messaging system,-alone, for it provides a layer of safety.
2. Be Sure Apps Are Reliable
Not every dating app is made alike. Look for dating apps which come with strong safety features: identity verification, video chat options. These types such as Bumble and Hinge mostly have blocking options and reporting about suspicious users, giving control over experience.
3. Beware Scammers
Scammers are out there in the world of online dating. They create fake profiles and start winning one’s confidence before asking for money or private details. So caution here if someone mentions a dramatic story and says they need help. For example, a colleague once had a chat with someone who claimed to be stranded abroad and was asked for money to return. Luckily, she figured it was a scam and ended the discussion.
4. Gut Instinct
Those instincts are very powerful. If something feels off, trust that feeling. Maybe their story doesn’t add up, or they keep pushing for too much personal information too soon. If a conversation leaves you feeling sad, frustrated, or uneasy, it’s okay to stop talking and walk away.
5. Don’t rush things before your first date.
In-person meetings can sometimes invite unnecessary risks. Take time out by engaging in video call conversations or voice calls with the person before deciding to meet. If meeting in person then choose a crowded public place-like a coffee shop or a park-to have first date experiences.
When I met someone that I had a dating app with, I had picked a public café in the city’s crowded area. Also, I informed my friend where I was going and caught up with her afterward. It made even the tiniest steps to feel secure at this point.
6. Inform Someone of Your Plans
Always share your schedule with a trusted friend or family member when you are meeting someone new. Let them know when, where, and the name of the person. You may even want to set up a “check in” text with them to let them know you’re safe.
7. Set boundaries and stick to them
It is important to know what is considered comfortable and what does not go past that. If it is not comfortable yet to disclose certain details or to meet in person, be willing to say so. An individual with respect would hence understand and wait until you get comfortable with doing it.
8. Be Alert while Meeting in Person
Even if you are going to meet someone in a public place, always stay alert. Avoid drinking too much or leave things unattended. If you feel uncomfortable in the course of the date, it is alright to cut short the time and leave.
I remember meeting someone who seemed nice online but was very pushy in real life. I ended up discreetly ending and leaving early from seeing this individual. Choosing safety over politeness is always the right choice.
9. Block and Report
Most dating apps nowadays carry features that allow you to either block or report users who make you uncomfortable. Do not hesitate to use these features when someone harasses or misbehaves with you: it would help make the platform safer for other users, too.
10. Another No-No: Oversharing in Social Media
For instance, people can easily know where you live and where you work; even where you enjoy yourself, just by visiting your public spaces on Instagram or Facebook. You may also consider making your profiles private for that extra layer of protection.
To Conclude:
Online dating might be fun, but you shouldn’t get lost on the path. Know now that your personal things belong to you; trust your gut instincts, and take your time before you decide to meet a person physically. These will keep you enjoying online dating within a boundary of security.
Remember, it’s not the end of the world if you leave or stop talking to someone because you’re uncomfortable with the conversation. Your safety and comfort should come first. Smart, safe dating and happy…!
