In today’s internet-centered society, many people are using to dating websites and apps to find partners.  Online dating is becoming a growing service, with many new websites and apps being developed.  While these services can be fun and provide the potential for a relationship, they also come with risks.  People are not always who they claim to be and can have malicious intents.  Following these tips can help to provide an enjoyable, rewarding online dating experience without the dangers.

Do be honest.  You expect the person you’re connecting with online to be the same person that they claim to be.  Make sure you do the same, even if you’re self-conscious about your age or appearance.  If you’re trying to date someone, it’s likely they will find out eventually.  It’s best to be honest from the beginning.

Don’t post personal information.  If you reveal your phone number, address, or other personal information, you are likely to be the target of spam.  Only share personal information with people you trust.  Even if you have been contacting someone for a while, make sure to meet them before giving them your information.

Do be suspicious.  If you’re interested in someone, check out their social media to see if things add up.  If something seems suspicious or they refuse to give you their social media, they may not be who they claim to be.  If you meet with them and they are different than who they claim to be, it’s best to get out of the situation.

Don’t  be a stalker.  Checking out someone’s Instagram is one thing.  Looking at their Facebook every day and trying to figure out their address is quite another.  Think about how you would like other people to view your social media and act accordingly.  If you want to know more about someone, talk to them.  Don’t stalk them.

Do meet up safely.  If you think you have found someone you want to meet, make sure to take precautions.  Let other people know where you are going and when you expect to be back.  Meet in public, where other people can prevent anything bad from happening.

Don’t trust the other person too soon.  Just because they seemed nice in some online messages doesn’t mean someone is who they claim to be.  Never meet up for the first time alone or at your house or their house.

Do block people if necessary.  If someone is stalking you, sending you spam, or makes you uncomfortable, don’t hesitate to hit the “block” button.  Make sure to always report spam and suspicious behavior.

Don’t let your guard down.  Listen to your intuition.  If something seems wrong, it probably is.  Even if you can’t pinpoint a specific reason why, avoid people who make you uncomfortable or who you don’t trust.

Many happy couples today have met online.  However, a few people have had the unpleasant experience of running into people with malicious intents.  Make sure to always follow proper precautions to keep online dating fun and safe.