The news is rife with stories about the downside of using dating apps, but meeting someone online is often safer than meeting someone in a bar. Head of Customer Care and online dating safety expert, Emma Inniss, from Venntro Media Group - an award-winning dating and lifestyle group that provides services to over 50 million consumers worldwide - offers her top tips on how to navigate the world of online dating safely and successfully.
Relationships on Female First
1. Use the site or app for as long as you feel comfortable
Most reputable dating sites all have messaging systems in place that mean you won't need to give out any contact information to other members until you're happy to. If someone that you're talking to online asks for your details when you don't yet feel ready to move away from the comfort of your dating site, don't be afraid to tell them that you'd rather stick to talking online for a bit longer. If they're genuine, this won't be a problem.
2. Keep your pennies to yourself
If someone you are talking to starts to bring up the subject of money, makes you feel uncomfortable by mentioning it or asks you outright to help them with a quid or two, alarm bells should start to ring. Report them to the site you're using and move on.
3. Go somewhere public
Sure, it's nice to go somewhere quiet and romantic when you like someone but save that for your second or third date. Keep it casual at first. Try meeting for a coffee, visiting a gallery or just going for a walk. Not only will it be safer but you'll be at ease and might get to know them that bit better. You could even consider buddying up and taking a friend for a double date for safety in numbers!
4. Tell someone where you're going, and when you'll be back
Online dating is not the time to be coy and hide your new love interest particularly if you are planning on meeting someone in person. Make sure someone you trust knows you are going on a date, where you plan to meet them, when you are going and when you are likely to be back. To be even safer, commit to calling them or sending a text when you are safely home….and promise to give them the low down on the gossip!
5. Don't drink too much
I know, I know. A gin and tonic or two is the perfect way to deal with first date nerves but try and stop at two! Even the most sensible of us can throw caution to wind after one too many drinks and end up in a situation you don't want to be in. Play it safe and lay off the drink!
6. Have a transport plan
Whether that's using your own car or bringing extra cash for a taxi, make sure you know how you're getting home. You don't want to be left stranded and if things didn't go so well on your date then an awkward lift home won't be enjoyable.
About Venntro Media Group
Founded in 2003, Venntro is the award-winning global media group that connects people to a life they'll love through dating, lifestyle and social networking technology. Providing services to over 50 million consumers worldwide, Venntro operates in all major English-speaking territories and has 25,000 dating and lifestyle sites worldwide. With a diverse portfolio of internationally recognised brands, businesses operating under Venntro include Smooch.com, Jiko, Revealr, SomethingSerious.com, JustSingles.com and White Label Dating - an award-winning platform allowing brands and entrepreneurs to power their own branded online dating sites.
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