Be safe when dating online

Online dating is becoming more and more popular by the second. This is reflected in the number of online dating portals across the world and in turn by the number of people using these portals. A survey done by the research firm Chadwick Martin Bailey showed that in 2010 “more than twice as many marriages occurred between people who met on an online dating site than met in bars, at clubs and other social events combined”. The same survey showed that about 17% of all the couples who get married met online.  This tendency has opened a door for con-artists, cheaters and scammers to take advantage of people.

Thankfully, if you are aware of these risks and you keep your eyes open for any kind of threats -you should be fine. There are usually some signs that will tell you if someone is not being honest with you and if you are potentially being scammed.

Be wary of the following people…

-People with incomplete information in their profiles.

-People with information that looks confusing or erroneous.

-The photo in their profiles look “fake” as in it looks like it was taken from a magazine, has lots of Photoshop or appears to include ‘model-like’ photos, there are incredibly good looking people on these sites just be sure you are looking at a true profile pic, ask for more pictures if unsure.

-People who are always trying to show off and sell you unrealistic experiences and “dreams” like expensive trips or gifts, rather than being interested in your personality.

-People claiming that they have fallen in love after a couple of hours of chatting online, obviously!

-People claiming to have problems with money, health or family.

-Trust your intuition!

Keep in mind the following tips when you are dating online…

-Never give out personal information like your Phone numbers, place of work, address, credit card number, etc.

-Don’t meet people after a short relationship, spend time getting to know each other online first, true love needn’t be rushed.

-Have a conversation over the phone before you agree to meet anyone. This could give you more insight into the person.

-If you have agreed to meet someone after dating for some time, try to bring a friend along to the date. If that’s not possible, let someone know where you are going and who are you meeting.

-Choose a public place that is neutral and where you can feel secure.

-Most dating websites verify profiles. You can ask them to verify the information of the person you are dating with.

- Ask questions that you have asked before and see if the answers are consistent.

-Finally and most important: Use your common sense. Avoid potentially dangerous situations the same way as when you go out to a bar or any other social event….again Trust your Intuition!