Online Dating Safety Tips Everyone Should Know

Protecting your personal information on apps

Never share your home address, workplace address, or financial information with someone you have not met in person. Use a Google Voice number or similar service if you want to text before meeting. Keep your last name private until you have established trust through at least one in-person meeting.

Be cautious about photos that reveal identifiable locations like your apartment building, car license plate, or regular hangout spots. A quick reverse image search of your match's photos can also help verify they are who they claim to be.

Spotting scams and catfish profiles

Red flags include profiles with only professional-quality photos, people who refuse to video chat, conversations that escalate to 'I love you' within days, and anyone who asks for money regardless of the reason. If a profile seems too good to be true, it probably is.

Romance scammers often build trust over weeks before making requests. They may claim to be in the military, working abroad, or experiencing a sudden emergency. If someone you have never met in person asks for financial help of any kind, report them immediately.

First date safety essentials

Always meet in a public place for the first few dates. Tell a friend where you are going and who you are meeting. Share your live location with someone you trust. Drive yourself or take a rideshare rather than accepting a ride from your date.

Trust your instincts. If something feels off during the date, you are allowed to leave. You don't owe anyone an extended encounter just because you made plans. A quick 'I'm not feeling well, I need to head out' is a perfectly acceptable exit.

Using dating apps responsibly

Report suspicious profiles. Block anyone who makes you uncomfortable. Take screenshots of conversations if someone behaves threateningly. Most apps have safety teams that respond to reports, and your report might protect someone else from a bad experience.