Be Aware of Online Dating Dangers and Precautions

Take the time to be aware of the dangers of online dating and precautions when finding interest in someone. This is a very serious issue that can put individuals in harms way physically, emotionally and financially. There have been accounts of individuals getting caught in uncompromising situations from online dating resulting in life changing experiences not to their liking.

Online daters would hope to find someone that is trustworthy and kind, though that is not always the case. The dangers affect men as well as women though women are more likely to be exposed to physical danger. Sharing of this information is not to scare anyone away from dating online. This is to alert individuals of the possibilities so they can take the necessary precautions when connecting with someone.

Online dating dangers

It is amazing how much information is exchanged when communicating online. When the chemistry seems right, it is easy to give up personal information such as phone numbers, home, work or email addresses and even certain account numbers. Promises are made and feelings of trust are established through online chatting giving the persona that it could develop into something wonderful. All the while, this is only correspondence through email...a perfect setup for invasion of privacy and personal information.

Private rendezvous for the first couple of meetings may prove to be disastrous. Meeting someone away from the public will leave no clues or witnesses. Relying on the other person's transportation is a sure way to find out where you live and does not offer a way to escape if needed.

Online dating precautions

Always trust your instincts. It is the best signal of a heads-up that something is either right or wrong. If trusting your instincts is not prevalent, by all means use common sense when dating online. Watch for signs of strange behavior when communicating with the individual. Be aware that there are individuals that falsify who they really are.

Do not give out any personal information such as phone numbers, home, work, or email addresses, PINs and account numbers. Do not give them the advantage to find out where you live, work or to get access to your bank accounts and other safe keepings. Protect your identity.

If you receive enough information about someone, do a background check for any possible criminal activities. This will help to uncover anything the person may be hiding.

Request a photo, even various photos in different settings for a visual view of the person. It is an excellent way of checking out the person's appearance and your instincts.

Talk on the phone if you feel comfortable. You will be able to listen to the person live and get a better account of personality and communication skills. Important, do not reveal your personal number. Consider using a cell phone number.

When you are ready to meet, bring along a friend or friends. If you choose to go by yourself, leave information such as where you will be, meeting time, photo-name-telephone number of your date with a family member or friend. Use your own car and do not pick up the person. Have them find their own mode of transportation.

Meet in a public place that is familiar such as a coffee house or restaurant. If alcohol is consumed, know your limit. You want to be aware and focused to make good judgments and decisions.

If you are meeting in a different location other than what is familiar to you such as a city, state or even country, make your own arrangements regarding car rental and hotel. Do not give out the name of the hotel and hotel phone number. Make contact through your cell phone. Agree on a meeting place that is public and safe. Remember to leave your contact information with family and friends.

If you are unsure about a situation, trust your instincts. Do not let yourself get caught in a situation that may be harmful to you. Do what ever you need to do to get away. Escape to your car, call a friend, ask somebody nearby for help or call the police.

The bottom line is, there are good people and there are ones that will definitely try and take advantage of situations. The key is to protect yourself and stay out of harm's way.