Tips for Safe Online Dating

Many people are turning to online dating today in order to meet new people and find potential love interests. While online dating can definitely expose you to new people, it can also expose you to certain risks and dangers as well. When approached with safety in mind, online dating can be a fun and rewarding experience.
The first rule you should always keep in mind when online dating is to spend some time getting to know the other person first. This should be handled over the phone, but it’s important to keep in mind that’s it’s not a good idea to give out your home or cell number. Individuals with less than innocent ideas in mind can use just this information to locate your home and or workplace. Try using a disposable phone service when first getting to know someone.
Always, always meet in a public place. You more than triple your amount of safety when you are surrounded by other people. If the other person has less than pure motives they will think twice before trying to harm you.
Don’t be afraid to say no. If the other person tries to talk you into doing something that you do not feel comfortable with, be firm and say no. You won’t regret it.
Never get in the car with someone when you are first getting to know them. Always make arrangements to meet and always have your own transportation home. Even if the first date appears to go well, play it safe and go home alone.
Before you make arrangements for your first meeting, ask for several recent pictures. This will help you to know exactly who you’re planning to meet and will also help to ensure that you won’t uncover any unpleasant surprises when you do meet. Ideally, ask for a photo with a date stamp so you can be sure the picture isn’t from several years ago.
Always be sure to listen to your gut instinct. Many times this can alert you to potential signals that something might not be quite right. Don’t be afraid to ask questions. Be up front about finding out the other person’s living arrangements, marital status and their history regarding prior relationships. If you feel that the other person is being less than honest, this could be a good sign that they will continue to do so later on. It’s best to end it now rather than have worse problems later on.

Finally, don’t forget to always let someone know where you will be, when you are meeting your date and anything you know about them that could help to identify them in case there is a problem.

 
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