So you have met someone online and you are anxious to meet him or her. They seem like the perfect person for you. Take a minute and make sure that you keep the following online dating safety tips in mind.
1. Do not let the person come to your home to pick you up. At this point, they should not know where you live, anyway.
2. Pick a public location as a meeting spot, particularly places that have security on site like malls. Then, if you have problems with your date, you have help available.
3. Pay for your own meal and other expenses. Do not let this person set up a feeling of obligation in you where you feel you need to spend more time with them to pay them back.
4. Avoid alcohol or other mind-altering substances. You need to keep your judgment intact. Keep an eye on your drinks and food at all times so drugs are not slipped in them.
5. Make sure that your gas tank is full in case you are followed when the date has ended.
6. Never assume that a date is safe because they know someone you know or are religious. Some of the worst criminals can appear completely normal at times and hide behind socially acceptable veils like church.
7. Your date may suggest a walk or other way to get you alone. Be sure to stay in well-lit areas with plenty of other people around.
8. Your gut is the best judge of your relative safety in situations. If you feel that something is not right, leave immediately. Do not worry about offending someone. That gut feeling may be the only warning sign of impending danger.
9. Be sure to let a friend know who you are with and your plans for the evening. Check in with them when you are safely home.
10. If you must provide a phone number, give your cell phone number. Home phone numbers are easily linked to an address.
11. Always have your cell phone with you in case of emergency.
12. For women, do not leave your purse unattended in case your date feels like snooping.
By being mindful of these online dating safety tips, you should be able to meet people through dating websites and stay safe.