Safety Tips When Using Internet Dating Sites

Online dating sites are growing in popularity. Most people using an online dating service are decent and well-intentioned. But, there is always an element of risk involved in meeting an unknown person for the first time. Online dating websites do not screen their members; anyone can sign up for an online dating profile. And, anyone can misrepresent their information. Taking initial precautions provides safety, creating the right environment for a first date.

Setting up an Online Profile

Each online dating website has its own guidelines for profiles, specifying what to include and what is not allowed. Very few will ask for a real name to be put on the public profile. The user has to come up with a suitable "name" to use for public view. This name should be something made up, it can reflect an interest or hobby, a location or something totally unconnected. It’s safer to avoid using any part of one’s actual name.

Putting a public picture on the dating site is another place to consider safety. Online dating sites encourage users to post pictures, often promising increased activity for those with photos. When choosing a photo be sure to crop out identifying places or words.

Contacting An Online Suitor

Once the first step has been taken and emails are being exchanged, the next step is usually a phone call or a meeting. When setting up a profile on an online dating site there is a required email for the account. Set up a separate email account for dating, one that does not reveal the full name or a work location.

Phone calls are a great way to assess the level of comfort between two people. Let the potential suitor know that first call will come from a blocked number and explain the need for caution. If he or she isn’t willing to do that then look elsewhere. Safety is important, so is dating someone who respects others’ wishes.

The First Meeting

Safe online dating is relatively simple, if these basic steps are followed. Consider the following online dating tips:

  • Pick a well populated location. Do not agree to a place that is isolated or in an unknown part of town.
  • Make the first date for coffee or a quick lunch. The time can be more defined, leaving both parties an ‘out’ if things aren’t going well. The date can always be extended if things are going well.
  •  Always meet at the chosen location, do not get in the car with an unknown person.
  •  Let a friend know about the date and share the particulars.
  • Use instincts – is the date progressing too rapidly, is there unwanted touching? Is there any discomfort?

There is a temptation to rush with online dating; taking it slow and safe gives both parties a chance to get to know each other. And, if this person does not turn out to be Mr./Ms. Right, he or she can’t show up at the workplace or call without that identifying personal information. 

The internet can be a great place to find a date. Set up a profile with an appropriate picture and proceed to contact other internet daters. Meeting in a safe convenient location allows both parties to decide if there is compatibility. Use caution and some basic precautions to set up a meeting, then get to know each other.