Meeting has never been easier – in the modern world, there are many ways to meet and get to know new people. You no longer have to rely on your circle of contacts and friends or chance. You can meet right now and in the comfort of your own home. All this thanks to online dating and dating apps, such as Tinder, Badoo and others.
Moreover, dating through dating is no longer taboo – currently, about fifty percent of couples meet thanks to dating and dating apps. Although online dating opens up new, previously unimagined possibilities, it also brings many pitfalls and security threats. Privacy and security on the Internet are becoming an increasingly topical topic. Find out how to navigate the Internet safely and how to avoid the most common risks and pitfalls of online dating.
Fear of fraud and disappointment
Among the most common concerns associated with online dating are the fear of scammers, cyberattacks and uncertainty stemming from the fact that many people are unsure how to behave safely on the Internet. Fears of disappointment are also very common - often the counterpart in the real world is different from the person they appeared to be when texting online, or is only interested in one-night stands and not a serious relationship. Another reason for disillusionment is also retouched photos that do not match their real appearance. Modern photo retouching tools can help you lose weight, smooth out wrinkles or even go bald. Nevertheless, online dating is very popular - according to research, 39% of couples in the USA meet online.
How to stay safe on online dating?
If you decide to use online dating services or dating apps, follow these ten safety tips - you will enjoy dating with more peace of mind and security:
Look for reviews of the dating site
Before registering for an online dating site, find out if it has good reviews and how it protects user data. If you register for a paid dating site, read how your membership is renewed. If it is automatic renewal, the dating site will charge you for the next period without your consent, until you cancel your membership yourself.
Do not share personal information
Follow the privacy policy. Never give your personal information, such as your address, date of birth or other sensitive information, to strangers. The Internet is teeming with scammers who can misuse your information. If you give a stranger your address, you also expose yourself to the risk of stalking, apartment burglary or other unpleasantness. Don’t give out your phone number or email address in the first conversation.
Don’t click on suspicious links
Never click on suspicious links or links sent by strangers, whether they are links to photos, videos or websites. They may contain malicious software or lead to fraudulent sites. The risk of your computer being infected or your bank account being stolen is definitely not worth it.
Use unique passwords
Use strong and unique passwords when registering on dating sites. This will reduce the risk of data misuse.
Request a video call
Before you go on a personal meeting, request a video call with your partner. This will verify that you are dealing with a real person and not a scammer who is only pretending to be the person in the profile photo.
Google and check
If you know your partner’s full name, you can verify their identity online. You can also check out their social media and the content they share. Statuses, shared content, or posts can reveal a lot about their personality, opinions, or hobbies. They can also often reveal scammers who are in a relationship and are just looking for a one-night stand.
Keep a healthy distance
Be wary if someone is pushing you to meet up quickly, constantly calling you, or inundating you with messages. It’s not your responsibility to respond immediately or nod to a date with a stranger. This could be a warning sign that you’re dealing with a toxic personality or manipulator. Never force yourself into something that makes you uncomfortable or makes you feel uncomfortable. Instead, trust your intuition.
Meet in a public place
The first date should take place in a safe environment and in a public place. Arrange to meet at your favorite coffee shop, restaurant, or another place where you won’t be completely alone. Do not go out with strangers to remote places where someone with malicious intentions could surprise you.
Confide in a close person
Before you go on a date with a stranger, confide in someone close to you who you are going with, where you are going, and arrange a follow-up contact.
Do not invite a stranger to your home
Do not invite a stranger to your home right after the first date, or visit them at their home. There will be enough time for that, when you get to know each other better and build mutual trust. You never know what intentions the other party is hiding. Therefore, it is better to thank them for a wonderful evening and if you liked the other person, arrange a date straight away.
Red Flags: 10 Warning Signs When Dating on a Dating App
Speed dating can be an alternative
If you are discouraged by the hidden dangers of the Internet or the riskiness of online dating and are looking for a safer alternative to meeting people, try speed dating. With speed dating, you can meet people safely, anonymously, in fun and, above all, face to face. You will avoid the dangers that lurk in an anonymous virtual environment and other horror experiences that can happen to you on a date with a stranger from an online dating site. And as a bonus, in one evening you will meet up to 12 single counterparts who are looking for a serious relationship. Just choose the date of your date, we will arrange the rest!
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