With the availability of the internet, many people find their next date or their spouse on online dating websites. It can be invigorating to hunt through people's profiles for someone you'd like to get to know better and possibly spark a romantic connection with, but it's important to keep some safety tips in mind when you venture into online dating.
Remember They're Strangers
When you meet someone on an online dating website, you must remember that this person is still a stranger. This isn't somebody your buddy recommended that you meet and she's not a friend, not yet anyway. Most people on these websites joined for the same reason that you did, but just like with dating in person, you should keep your guard up at first for the ones without good intentions.
Guard Personal Contact Information
Most of the dating websites keep your personal information such as your email address, phone number and home address private until you decide to give it out. Psych Central advises that you keep this information private until you've gotten to know the person better. Don't give out your address, even if you decide to give the person your email address or phone number, until you've met in person at least once.
Meet in a Public Place and Take Your Cell Phone
Be wary of anyone that recommends meeting in a private location for the first date. To be safe, pick a well-populated location such as a restaurant. Don't have him pick you up for the first couple dates. Remember, you don't want him to know where you live until you've gotten to know him a little better. Drive yourself or take public transportation. Bring your cell phone and make sure it's charged. Just in case something bad happens, you want to be able to contact the police or a friend for help. For example, if you had one glass of wine but feel woozy, he could have put a date rape drug in your drink. You'll be happy you can call a cab or a friend to come pick you up. Plan for the worst even though it most likely won't occur.
Tell a Friend
Match.com recommends telling a friend about your dates. Let your friend know where you're going, who your date is and what time to expect your call to say you got back home safely. To go one step further, inform your date that someone knows about your date. For instance, you could say something like, "My friend, Bob, recommended this restaurant when I told him I was going on a date with you."
Stay Alert for Red Flags
Believe someone the first time he shows you who he is. For instance, if he yells at the waiter over something silly, he probably has anger issues. Also, be on alert for inappropriate physical behavior, someone who wants to move the relationship faster than you'd like and inconsistent information. If you notice red flags, move on.
