Dating through dating apps can be an interesting way to meet new people. However, it comes with many risks, especially when dating online. A "red flag" is a warning sign that indicates you should be cautious. You can detect a bad relationship, a toxic, or dangerous person right from the start. The way someone communicates, the information in their profile, or their photos can reveal more than you might think. Learn to recognize the most common warning signs and save yourself from unpleasant experiences.
10 Most Common Dating Red Flags:
Lack of Information in the Profile
Does the person’s profile contain very little information? Does it even lack a photo? Your new acquaintance might have a reason to stay anonymous. Perhaps they have a partner at home and fear being discovered, or they have other dishonest intentions. Openness and sharing information about oneself show that a person is authentic and interested in a real connection.
Too Quick Interest in Personal Information
You’ve exchanged just a few messages, and they’re already fishing for personal information? Are they interested in your address, date of birth, or phone number? Then caution is warranted. Do not give personal information to someone you don’t know at all. The internet is full of scammers. If you want to avoid identity theft or a drained bank account, cut off the conversation or block the user outright.
Unrealistic Photos
Does your new acquaintance's profile picture look too perfect? Does it resemble a magazine photo rather than a real person? Too professional or edited photos may indicate a fake profile. People hiding their true identity often use stock photos or images generated by artificial intelligence. Be cautious if they have an illustration or another image instead of real photos in their profile.
Pressuring for a Quick Meeting
Did you receive a new message on the dating app with an invitation for a date? Wanting to meet in person after some time chatting is completely natural. However, if someone is pushing you for a meeting without you having shared much about yourselves, be alert. Don’t let yourself be pressured into something that doesn’t feel right. Your intuition usually doesn’t deceive you. A quick meeting can be dangerous, especially if you don’t know the other person at all. If you do agree to meet, choose a public place that you know well.
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Sexual Innuendos
Did you receive a dick pic, a question about your sexual preferences, or a direct offer for sex in the very first message? If you’re looking for a serious relationship and not just a one-night stand, don’t respond to such messages or block the user outright.
Vulgar Communication
Are you receiving vulgar or insulting messages? Or does the communication exude arrogance and aggression? In that case, there’s no need to deliberate—just click the “block” button.
One-Sided Communication
Is your match constantly talking about themselves, while your opinions, interests, and desires seem to bore them or are dismissed in one sentence? If a person reveals themselves as a self-centered narcissist from the very first messages, it’s unlikely to get better! Don’t expect empathy or interest in your joys and concerns from this person. Remember that ignoring doesn’t belong in a healthy relationship.
Childish Nicknames
Are you chatting with someone who presents themselves on the dating app with a nickname like "Koblížek" (Doughnut), "Míšánek" (Little Bear), "Čumáček" (Little Snout), "Mr. Perfect," or "Kitten"? Some nicknames can come off as childish and awkward, especially for men. After a few exchanged messages, you might discover that you’re dealing with an immature person who is looking for a mother rather than a partner.
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Bombarding with Messages
“Are you there? Are you no longer interested? Reply!” Is your new acquaintance bombarding you with messages if you don’t reply for a moment? Or do they constantly inquire where you are, who you’re with, and what you’re doing? Then you’re dealing with a manipulator, a person without self-reflection, or another toxic weirdo. If they behave like this from the start, believe me, it will only get worse later.
A Lot of Secrets, Mysteries, and Lies
Does your new acquaintance avoid conversations about their personal life? Do they quickly change the subject if you ask how they spend their free time? Do they often respond ambiguously or even contradictorily? Are they uninterested in meeting outside the virtual world? All of this signals that they’re hiding something—maybe they’re in another relationship or are actually someone else than they claim to be. Openness and honesty are key qualities in building trust and relationships.
Don’t Overlook Red Flags
Dating on dating apps offers quick opportunities to meet people. It can be exciting and fun, but it’s essential to stay alert. By recognizing warning signs, you can avoid many unpleasant or dangerous situations and won’t waste time with someone who isn’t worth it. It’s better to end dangerous relationships at the outset. Learn to trust your intuition and don’t let yourself be manipulated. The anonymous environment of the internet favors toxic people, like manipulators, narcissists, or other pathological personalities who do not have your best interests at heart.
If you’re looking for a safer alternative to dating, try speed dating. At speed dating events, you can meet up to 12 singles face-to-face in one day. You’ll also avoid the dangers lurking in the anonymous virtual world, unpleasant rejections face-to-face, and other horror stories that can happen on a date with a stranger from an online dating site.
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