How To Stay Safe While Online Dating

The most common way to date in 2022 is through online dating apps. Millions of people are using online dating services and apps every day. But is it actually safe?

With apps like Bumble, Tinder, Hinge, among many others, protecting yourself can be a challenge but people need to be aware of the dangers.

Many are wondering what they can do to stay safe after arrest documents showed that a 22 year-old woman tied up her tinder date and bound, strangled and cut him inside of her Colorado Springs apartment for hours.

Here is a reminder that not only are women at risk of harm whilst meeting strangers for dates. Recent events in Colorado Springs have proven that men, although less likely to face danger, are still in fact putting themselves in a vulnerable position.

Here are some important reminders and pieces of advice to protect yourself if you decide to venture into the world of online dating.

There are many risks when venturing out into the world of online dating. There are risks you might not consider and I am here to give you a heads up, so you can be more aware during these interactions.

Here are a few risks you take by being a part of the online dating world.

-You risk potential partners stalking and harassing you.

-People can pretend to be someone they are not, commonly known as catfishing.

-You open yourself up to spam, fraud and potential theft. Never use a cash app or other payment app to give a potential date money.

Please remember that people genuinely interested in dating you, will not try to get you to pay for anything, especially prior to meeting them. These are scammers and are likely catfishing They are not who they seem nor are they genuine people you would want to date in real life. Believe me here. I have seen many older women trying to date that have been scammed by these lowlifes.

Another big one is this: do not send nudes or do things on webcams with strangers. Many times this can and will be used as blackmail. Save these kinds of intimate exchange for established relationships, with someone you fully trust.
Now, let’s talk about your dating profile.

When it comes to setting up your dating profile on a reputable dating site, it is important to take extra precautions to stay secure. Remember to stay private and don’t let everyone know who you are. These tips can save you from stalking and harassment.

Here are a few tips according to the Rape, Abuse & Incest National Network.

-Be cautious about opening email attachments from someone you have only just met.

-Create an anonymous email for your dating profiles.

-Use different photos for your dating profile than are shown on your personal social media sites. These photos, if duplicated, can be used to do a reverse google search and bring creepers right to your personal page.

-Choose an anonymous username.

-Keep your contact details private.

Here are some things to consider when you are talking with someone online or by phone/text message:

-Avoid suspicious profiles- If someone you matched with has no bio information or only one photograph, it could be a fake account.

-DON”T respond to requests for financial help.

-Take your time- Don’t give your life story right away, especially personal details.

-Research your potential dates.

-Report suspicious behavior immediately.

Okay, so they passed the previous tests. Is it time to meet someone in person?
Here are several steps to keep you safe for those first, second or third date meetings.

-Do your research on someone before meeting for the first time.

-Tell your close friends where you are going, including giving them access to your location and the details of your date, meeting place, time, date’s info etc.

-Meet in a public place. Don’t go back to an apartment or home of someone you just met.

-Provide your own transportation.

-Know your limits and keep drinking to a minimum so you have better judgment.

-Don’t leave drinks unattended, even for a moment.

-Don’t give out private information, including your address or where you work.

Lastly, if you feel uncomfortable, leave the date. The end. Always trust your instincts. If something does not feel right, it likely isn’t. Do not be afraid to be rude. It could save your life!!