Safety in Online Dating

Online dating has revolutionized how we meet potential partners, but it's important to prioritize your safety throughout the process. This guide covers essential safety tips for every stage of online dating, from creating your profile to meeting in person.

Before You Start: Profile Safety

Your dating profile is your first impression, but it's also your first line of defense. Consider these tips when setting up your profile:

• Limit personal information: Avoid sharing your full name, address, workplace, or other identifying details in your profile.
• Choose photos wisely: Select photos that don't reveal your home address, workplace, or routine locations.
• Use platform features: Take advantage of verification features on dating platforms to confirm your identity and match with other verified users.

Communication Safety

When you start chatting with someone, maintain boundaries and be alert for warning signs:

• Keep conversations on the platform: Use the dating app's messaging system until you've established trust before sharing your phone number or social media.
• Trust your instincts: If something feels off about a conversation or if someone is pressuring you for personal information, it's okay to end communication.
• Watch for inconsistencies: Be cautious if someone's story frequently changes or if they avoid video chats or in-person meetings.
• Never send money: Be extremely wary of anyone who asks for financial assistance, regardless of how compelling their story might be.

Meeting In Person

When you're ready to meet a match in person, take these precautions:

• Meet in public: Choose a busy, public location for your first few meetings.
• Tell a friend: Share your date plans with a trusted friend, including who you're meeting, when, and where.
• Arrange your own transportation: Drive yourself or use public transportation/rideshare so you can leave independently if needed.
• Stay sober: Limit alcohol consumption to maintain good judgment.
• Check in: Set up a check-in time with a friend during or after the date.

Ongoing Dating Safety

As a relationship progresses, continue to prioritize your safety:

• Take your time: There's no need to rush sharing personal information or becoming intimate.
• Maintain independence: Keep your own friends, hobbies, and support system.
• Watch for controlling behavior: Be cautious if your date monitors your activities, isolates you from friends/family, or exhibits jealousy.

Digital Privacy

Protect your digital footprint throughout the dating process:

• Use a Google Voice number: Consider using a secondary phone number for dating contacts until trust is established.
• Review social media privacy: Check your privacy settings on all platforms to control what potential dates can discover about you online.
• Be cautious with intimate content: Avoid sharing intimate photos or videos, especially early in a relationship.