Datings Articles

Online Dating Safety

Dating online can be fun and enjoyable, but over time some have misused it for their own agendas. As in real life, one has to be careful when dating someone they hardly know. Here are some tips that will make your dating experience safe and enjoyable.

• Do not give personal information. Never include your last name, phone number, personal e-mail address, place of work, home address or any other identifying information. Steer clear of anyone who presses you for personal information – keep it vague.

• Be honest. You might think that you can stretch the truth about things such as height, weight, or amount of income, but eventually you will get caught, which is definitely the one of the easiest ways to ruin a relationship. This is the time for people to get to know the true YOU - not the exaggerated alter ego that you think more people would like.

• Take your time getting to know someone. Begin first by communicating only through e-mail – an alternate generic email, not your personal email that easily identifies who you are. Be on the lookout for odd behavior or inconsistencies. You should always be at ease and comfortable with whomever you are chatting with. If things don’t add up – or start to sound fishy – move on to someone else.

• Be on the look out for any displays of anger, frustration, attempts to pressure you, refusal to speak over the phone, attempts to avoid questions, inconsistent responses regarding age, marital status, profession, or employment.

• Ask for a photo. A picture gives you a good idea of the person’s appearance. Don’t just ask for one photo – ask for a couple of different photos in different settings such as a formal, a casual, and outdoors. Seeing different photos in different settings can help you get a better view of the person.

• Speak on the phone before meeting in person. Once you feel like you want to progress and get to know them better, you can swap numbers and talk over the phone. Instead of giving your home number out, use a cell phone for added security. A telephone call can tell you a lot about a person, including communication and social skills. Do not reveal your home phone number until you are completely comfortable.

• Meet only when you are ready to. Dating online gives you as much time as you want to chat and gather information without ever feeling obligated to meet someone. Even if you do decide to meet someone, you can always change your mind and back out of the face-to-face meeting.

• Meet in a public place and provide your own transportation. A familiar restaurant or coffee shop is often an ideal place. Avoid hikes, bike rides, drives, or remote areas for the first few dates unless you are completely comfortable with the location.

The key is to be cautious when you are meeting new people. The majority of people that you come across are going to be normal people out looking for a good time, like you. Unfortunately, there are situations that we need to watch out for. Take these tips into consideration and you will have a safe, enjoyable experience.

Contact Chet: 813-451-6466 Email Chet: chetspest @ gmail . com