12 Essential Dating Safety Tips for Online Daters

Modern dating in the digital age has made it easier than ever to connect with new people. However, it’s important to prioritize your safety and security when getting to know someone new. Whether you’re chatting virtually or planning to meet in person, these dating safety tips will help you navigate the world of online dating with confidence and peace of mind. Remember, your safety should always be a top priority.

1. Trust Your Gut

When it comes to online dating, your instincts are your best friend. If something feels off or too good to be true, trust your gut and proceed with caution. Don’t ignore any red flags or inconsistencies in the information the other person shares. While we hope to provide a thorough list of dating safety tips here, nothing is more powerful than your own intellect and intuition. 

2. Keep Personal Information Private

Protect your personal information until you’re comfortable and have established trust with the other person. Avoid sharing your full name, home address, workplace, or any other sensitive details early on. It’s better to be safe than sorry, and none of this stuff is needed to get to know someone at the very beginning. 

3. Use a Unique Username

If you’re on a few platforms, consider choosing a unique username that doesn’t reveal any personal information or make it easy to identify you. Avoid including your real name, birthdate, or location in your username. This adds an extra layer of security and privacy. We think this is another big one when it comes to safety tips for online dating, which is why we’ve built it into our matchmaking service. Tawkify matches are only informed of each other’s first name only two hours before their date. 

4. Use a Secure Messaging Platform

Stick to using the messaging platforms provided by the dating app or site (at Tawkify, all communication is done via your personal matchmaker). Other platforms often have built-in security measures and protect your identity. Avoid moving conversations to personal email, Instagram, or your phone too quickly. Hot take: No stranger interested in dating you needs to be tapping into your LinkedIn, though they may stumble upon it with a google search. 

5. Conduct a Reverse Image Search

To ensure the person you’re talking to is genuine, conduct a reverse image search on their profile pictures. This simple step can help you identify if the images are stolen or used without permission. You can access this via Google or TinyEye, it’s free, and it’s a valuable tool for detecting potential catfishing attempts. Pro Hint: If you do receive images directly, many iPhone and Android photos and videos also have time and geolocation stamps, which you can access by clicking “info” on the image itself. Check that out. Also, highly pixelated images, images of your prospect at a far distance, or always in sunglasses, might also be regarded as questionable.  

6. Set Boundaries and Communicate Clearly

Establish clear boundaries and communicate them to the person you’re talking to. Be upfront about your expectations and comfort levels. If something makes you uncomfortable, don’t hesitate to express it. A respectful and understanding person will appreciate your honesty and prioritize your boundaries, which you might also consider when racking up your list of first date dealbreakers. Also, making your intentions clear about the type of date you’re hoping to have can help mitigate confusion or mixed signals.

7. Take Things at Your Own Pace

Don’t let anyone pressure you into moving faster than you’re comfortable with. It’s essential to take things at your own pace when getting to know someone online. If someone is pushing for personal information or meeting right away, it may be a sign of disrespect or potential harm. Trust your instincts and proceed cautiously.

8. Video Chat Before Meeting

Perhaps one of our finest tips for online dating safety, and very much part of our service model. Modern technology is your friend, and you’re likely used to meeting people virtually by now. Before meeting someone in person, consider having a video chat. This could be a quick “hello,” to confirm their identity and help build trust and rapport before taking the next step, or even a mini date. While we at Tawkify match for specific search parameters, values and lifestyles, we also understand that voices, facial expressions, speech cadence and body language are huge contributors to attraction and compatibility. Matchmakers account for this by getting to know both parties first, adding to the long list of benefits of hiring a matchmaker, but if you’re going at it alone, you might save some time with a video screening. Although all of our matches are vetted and background checked, some of our own clients even choose Zoom or Google Meets on their first blind date. Whatever makes you most comfortable, we’re here for it. 

9. Inform a Friend or Family Member

Always let someone you trust know about your plans. Share details such as the location, time, and duration of your date, as well as the person’s name and contact information. Arrange to check in with your friend or family member during and after the date, providing an extra layer of safety. Pro tip: Most smartphones are equipped with indefinite location sharing. That person could be your roommate, your mom, or your best friend–if you’re not fussed about losing just a bit of privacy, this is a good way to help you get home if ever you’re in trouble. You might also consider offering to receive the location of your loved ones out journeying the world, too. 

10. Meet in a Public Place

This is also a star among our online dating safety tips—a best practice, which we actually insist on. When meeting someone for the first time, choose a public place for your date. This could be a coffee shop, restaurant, or literally any other location with people around. Avoid going to their home or inviting them to yours until you’re comfortable and have established trust. 

11. Arrange Your Own Transportation

Take control of your transportation to and from the date. Avoid accepting rides from the other person, especially if you don’t know them well. By having your own means of transportation, you have the freedom to leave if you feel uncomfortable or unsafe. We know that some romantic evenings can get passionate, but it’s likely not to happen without some trust involved. Someone insisting, unprompted, on driving you to a new location, might not have the best intentions.

12. The Tawkify Way

Here’s our favorite, because we know what works. If you’re looking for an extra level of safety and security in your online dating experience, consider using the #1 reputable matchmaking service: Tawkify. Tawkify conducts thorough background checks, fully vets each match, and never discloses your personal information without your consent. With private profiles and a commitment to confidentiality, Tawkify ensures you can focus on connecting with screened potential partners without compromising your safety.

We’re here to help. By following these essential safety tips for online dating, you can minimize risks and enjoy your online dating journey with peace of mind. Remember to trust your instincts, keep personal information private, and take advantage of secure platforms and tools. And for those seeking a dating experience with a strong emphasis on safety and security, powered by both technology and a team of intuitive and trained professional matchmakers, ethically and financially incentivized to create reciprocal matches, give us a try. Happy dating!