The number of people who prefer to get acquainted via the Internet increases every day. And it’s not surprising, because it is simple, fast and convenient. But the number of scammers has also increased in the network with the active development of modern technology.
Arnold from Dudethrill.com advises regardless of whether the acquaintance occurs in the real world or virtual, you need to be careful and follow the safety rules. This does not mean that you should stop all communication with strangers, delete your accounts on social networks or dating sites, and not even think about expanding your circle of contacts or starting new romantic relationships. And one night friend app review will give information about a wonderful and reliable adult dating app.
So that a new acquaintance does not become another disappointment, we’ve prepared nine important rules for you, the observance of which will help you to protect yourself from online scammers and avoid unpleasant situations.
Nine useful tips for safe online dating
Rule 1: Be safe
When you sign up for a dating site, ensure your personal information is protected. To do this, you must create a new email address that does not contain your first and last name. When communicating online with a new acquaintance, do not rush to give your phone number or home address.
Rule 2: Choose serious dating sites
If you want to protect yourself from the illegal transfer of your data to third parties or search engines, sign up only for serious websites that have already proven themselves well. Such sites treat their users and personal data responsibly, preventing leakage or disclosure of personal information.
Rule 3: Think of a strong password.
Social networks, dating sites, apps, email, online shopping – anywhere you need a password. If you’re one of those who use the same password for everything, try to fix that right away. Use a combination of uppercase and lowercase letters and a few numbers to make your password more secure.
Rule 4: Don’t conclude a person based only on information in his profile
There is a significant disadvantage in virtual dating – a person who does not want to show his true face can pass himself off as anyone. After all, no one will check the authenticity of the information in the column “profession,” “hobby,” or “hometown.” Perhaps this information is true, but it can only be found after a little conversation. Suppose during the process of correspondence you have any doubts. In that case, a person isn’t on his or her best behavior, or you even felt that you could be misused, then immediately stop communicating. If you still receive obtrusive messages or spam from a new acquaintance, report it to the site moderators by writing to the support service. They will sort out the situation and take necessary measures to block the questionable profile.
Rule 5: Safe communications
Someone has sent you a message, or you’re interested in one of the profiles, and you want to take the initiative and be the first to write to the person you like? In such a situation, it’s better to use the internal system of correspondence on the site rather than personal email. So, if communication ceases to be enjoyable, you can easily block a new friend, and he will forever lose the opportunity to contact you.
Rule 6: Be aware of the insecurity of questionable links
In the communication process, you and your interlocutor will learn more and more new things about each other. Sometimes when you are exchanging with someone about an event, he or she suddenly sends you a link to a site where, allegedly, the information you are interested in is contained. Don’t rush to open it right away. Remember that strange or untrustworthy links may contain viruses that are dangerous for your computer.
Rule 7: Asking for money is a reason to stop communicating
Any request for financial assistance from someone you don’t know well should be suspicious. It is unlikely that a decent person would ask strangers for money on the Internet, and even more so on a dating site, even if he or she really needs them. Do not believe in heartwarming stories, and do not let yourself be fooled. After all, you don’t earn money to give it to scammers.
Rule 8: Don’t let yourself be pushed around
You have known each other for only a few days, and the person already asks to visit, referring to the fact that he lives or works somewhere nearby and sees no point in delaying a virtual conversation when it can easily be in real life. Remember that you should agree to this step only after you are ready for it. And do not be afraid that your fellow will disappear immediately after your refusal – this means that his intentions were not so serious. But in case you are also interested in seeing him in real life, it is better to choose neutral territory for the meeting and not your own apartment.
Rule 9: Be careful on the first date
No matter how much you like a person, remember that while you do not know him well, and therefore it is better to play it safe. On a first date, go to a crowded place, after warning your family or one of your friends where and with whom you will go. Do not abuse alcohol and do not take doubtful substances, which offer you a new acquaintance. Also, don’t take a large sum of money or brag to your friend about how well you earn. If he or she asks about your salary or what you can afford, that’s a red flag.
Conclusion
But even if you are careful and follow all the safety rules, you can never be completely sure that you will not be cheated. But still, these simple tips will help to reduce the risk to a minimum.
