Online Dating: Staying Safe (Part 2)

Meeting in Public

• Choose a Public Place: Always meet in a location where there are plenty of people around. Familiar settings like a coffee shop or a busy park are ideal.
• Inform Someone: Let a friend or family member know where you’re going, who you’re meeting, and when you expect to return. Share the name, address, and phone number of your date.
• Daytime Meetings: Opt for daytime meetups. They are generally safer and allow for a clearer view of your surroundings.

Transportation Tips

• Independent Travel: Arrange your own transportation to and from the date. This keeps your home address private.
• Avoid Rides: Don’t accept a ride home from your date, and don’t invite them to your place.

Trust Your Instincts

• Be Prepared to Leave: If you feel uncomfortable, have a pre-planned excuse to leave early.
• Watch for Red Flags:
  • Evasive answers to direct questions.
  • Inconsistent information about their profile details.
  • Discrepancies in appearance or behavior.
  • Unwanted physical contact or pressure to meet quickly.
  • Avoidance of phone conversations.

Personal Safety

• Stay in Control: Don’t feel pressured to do anything you’re uncomfortable with. Trust your instincts.
• Carry a Personal Alarm: Consider having a personal alarm for emergencies. It can provide a crucial moment to escape if needed.

Discussing Sexual Health

• Open Conversations: Before becoming intimate, discuss your partner’s sexual history. Ask about past partners, use of protection, and any known STDs.
• Use Protection: When in doubt, always use a condom to protect against STDs.

Realistic Expectations

• Long-Distance Challenges: Consider the practicality of a long-distance relationship. Frequent travel can become burdensome.
• Acceptance of Outcomes: Understand that not every date will lead to a relationship. Be realistic about the possibilities.

Conclusion

Online dating can lead to meaningful connections, but it’s crucial to prioritize your safety. Make informed decisions and take responsibility for your actions. For more tips on online dating safety, check out this guide from the National Cyber Security Centre.

Interesting Stats

• According to a 2020 Pew Research Center study, 30% of U.S. adults have used a dating site or app, with 12% finding a committed relationship through them. Pew Research Center
• A 2019 study found that 53% of online daters lied in their profiles, with the most common lies about age, height, and income. Stanford University

Stay informed and stay safe as you navigate the world of online dating.