4 Online Dating Safety Tips for Women
If you’re a woman who has decided to try out the internet in the hopes of finding a potential match, it can provide you a great platform for doing so. Unfortunately though, there are some dangers that come along with using this method of dating. With the anonymity allowed by the internet, you never know if that cute investment banker with the golden retriever you’ve been chatting up is really who he says he is…or if he’s actually unemployed, living in his mother’s basement, watching The Silence of the Lambs, and taking extensive notes.
So to maintain the highest level of emotional and physical safety, be sure to check out the following tips on how to make online dating a safe and successful experience:
Tip #1: Keep personal info to yourself. This may sound like an obvious one, but it’s so important that it’s number one on the list and it shouldn’t be forgotten! When creating your username, profile, as well as through communications with online guys, never give out anything that could identify you from the next person. This includes your home address, where you work, phone number, personal email, last name and financial info. Not until you feel 100% certain that your online friend is trustworthy should you disclose these items.
Tip #2: Take it slow. You might think you’re really “clicking” with a guy over a few emails and you’re probably anxious to meet him right away…but your safest bet is to not rush into a meeting. Use the tools provided to you by your online dating service to communicate until you get to know him better. Most cyber dating relationships will develop over the internet for an average of about three weeks before an in-person meeting takes place. Use this time-frame as an example but if you feel that you need longer to get to know him, by all means take your time.
Tip #3: Plan a safe first date. When you get to a point where you feel comfortable communicating online with your match, you’re probably ready to meet the guy face-to-face. The first date can be a very thrilling experience, but it important that you not sacrifice your safety for fun. Follow these steps and you’ll greatly decrease the risk of finding yourself in a dangerous situation:
- Choose a crowded, public place, to meet. Never rely on your date for transportation—always meet them.
- Let a friend or family member know where you are going and the name of the guy taking you out. Be sure to keep your cell phone handy and call this friend or family member after the date to let them know you are safe.
- Consider going on a double date with another couple you know. Not only will you feel safer, but this also minimizes some of the nerves or awkwardness that comes along with a first date.
- Think about going “Dutch” and paying your own way—some men get the idea that you owe them something when they take care of your tab.
- Remain aware of your surroundings and hold on to your belongings—especially your drink. To be in complete control, forgo the alcohol for the first few meetings.
Tip #4: Watch for red flags. If at any point during your interaction with an online match you feel that something isn’t right, it is best to listen to your gut. Keep an eye out for inconsistencies in his stories or behavior that could be warning signs of a scammer, cheater or a sexual predator. If someone is making you uncomfortable online or out on a date, end things immediately and get to a safe place. Safety is your number one priority and anyone dating you should respect and understand your precautions.
