ONLINE DATING SAFETY TIPS FOR WOMEN

The promise of meeting the “Love of Your Life” is usually what draws us in to try online dating. In fact, statistics show that one in three relationships now start online. From dating sites to social media, many women are relying on electronic communication as a means of finding “Mr. Right.”

Avoiding awkward blind dates, our busy schedules and the sheer convenience of screening profiles from the privacy of your home sure sounds like an attractive alternative to the bar scene. The downside is that women are often allowing themselves to get swept up in the notion of developing a romantic relationship with someone they just met online; there is a sense of control created because women can choose who they want to communicate with.

Sometimes this false sense of security causes them to let their guard down too easily based on what is written in a user profile and a few email exchanges. As a result, women are losing their common sense and self-protection instincts; opening the door to potential predators.

One rule you can count on when it comes to cyber dating is that some people are going to lie, so please be alert. Here are a few guidelines to help you safely navigate the online dating scene leading up to the first date.

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Online dating

• Use a reputable online dating service. Make sure the site uses anonymizers or re-mailers to mask your real email address. It is also a good idea to create a separate email account specifically for online dating.
• Never share your personal information with someone you meet online, such as where you live or work, your phone numbers or personal email address.
• Do not make your online profile overly provocative as cyber flirtation can easily escalate and send the wrong message.
• Once you do make a connection, take your time getting to know as much as you can about the person.
• If someone makes you feel uncomfortable, report it to the dating service right away. It is also helpful to keep copies of all email and chat exchanges.

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Be Wary of

• Anyone who immediately asks you for a personal email address or phone number so you can chat offline.
• Anyone who claims to be a Trinidad and Tobago citizen but is traveling or working outside of the country.
• Anyone who claims to be recently widowed.
• Anyone who asks you for money.
• Anyone wanting you to send provocative/inappropriate photos of yourself.

The First Date

• Always meet in a public place. Choose a place that is familiar to you.
• Drive yourself to and from the date. Never leave with your date.
• No matter how strong you think your connection is, it just is NOT smart to go to a second location.
• Tell a friend and/or family member where you are going and who you are going with. Give as much information about your date as possible such as name, phone number and their online profile username. It is even a good idea to have a friend go to the same place and sit a few tables away.
• Stay sober. It is important to keep a clear mind and avoid behavior that would impair your judgment.
• Never leave a drink unattended, it is the perfect opportunity for someone to drug you without your knowledge.
• Listen to your intuition. If something seems off, leave as quickly as possible. If you are followed, drive to the nearest police station.

Most men you meet through online dating sites are safe, but your personal safety is the most important thing.  If a man is sincere, he will respect your need for being careful. If you arm yourself with knowledge, you will be less likely to become a victim and still enjoy the online dating experience.