With more and more people using the internet in current society, some are turning to the popular world of online dating. Many argue that online dating is not safe, or it is not right. On the other side, many argue that it is safe, and it is the perfect place to meet those who share the same interests, hobbies, views and so on as you. Both sides are somewhat right, but for those looking into online dating, there are ways to be safe.
First of all, you are anonymous online, so take advantage of this. In most online dating online sites, users are completely anonymous. This is a good way to take time and gain trust in others first. No online dating site will reveal personal information to other users without permission (clearly for safety reasons).
Be careful of what others tell you. It is online, and as we all know very well, it is easy to lie online. Many take advantage of the fact that people on the dating site are really looking for a relationship or friendship, and attempt to scam them. People might try to use someone to get a visa to enter their country. Some may even try to get hard cash out of you. Watch out for those whose profile says they are from a different country than they tell you. If they are offering you something that seems too good to be true, it probably is. The same rule for internet scams can be applied to online dating sites.
Use your common sense. If they are saying things to you that make you doubt them, then give that weight in your decision on whether you should continue talking to them. Furthermore, if you just simply get a bad feel when talking to this person, do not go any further. There are so many other people online for you to meet, so do not get stuck up on one person who seems “fishy”. Since the internet is so anonymous, it is extremely simple for people to not tell the truth. If someone you are talking to seems inconsistent in what they say (one day they have three brothers, the next they have none), cut interaction with them. This person is either a scammer, someone dangerous, or just someone who gets enjoyment out of bugging legitimate users online. Ask them for photos. If they only have one or two photos of themselves, there is a good chance the photo is not who you are really chatting with.
If possible, use a dating website that offers audio and video chat. This way, you are completely sure of you are talking to. Furthermore, this will allow you to see if there is a physical spark between yourself and the person you are chatting with. Though relationships should not be based around looks and physical attraction, they still do play a big role. With audio and video, users are far less at risk than those simply chatting through instant messaging.