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It’s no wonder that online dating is so popular. It’s an easy, fun and convenient way to meet new people with similar goals and interests. But as in “terrestrial” dating, precautions must be taken when dealing with people you hardly know. There are those individuals who can and do corrupt and misuse online dating services.
Here are some points to consider before jumping in to the Internet dating pool:
Take it Slow. Move forward with caution. Be on the lookout for odd or inconsistent behavior. If it doesn’t feel right, DON’T do it.
Keep it Secret. Never share your personal data with anyone you don’t absolutely trust. This sort of information includes your personal email or web address, your home address, phone numbers, place of business and anything else that can help identify you in the “real” world. Guard your anonymity and protect your safety and security.
Use Common Sense. Exercise cautions at every step – from the minute you post your initial profile, to the time you decide to meet a new friend face-to-face. Remember that potential dates must earn your trust gradually, through honest and honorable behavior.
Take a Picture. There is nothing wrong with asking for a photograph of your potential date. By having a picture, you may be able to better judge their personality. If the photo gives you a gut feeling, either positively or negatively, you’ll be free to act accordingly.
Make the Call. After you’ve established a certain rapport or intimacy with your online friend, you may decide to take the relationship to the next level. But before making plans to meet in person, be sure to get together a few times over the telephone. Having a phone conversation keeps you secure and anonymous, but reveals more clues about the person’s social and communication skills.
Meet in the Middle. You are never obligated to meet anyone in person, regardless of your level of online intimacy. However, if you do decide to meet, be sure to arrange your date at a mutually convenient place. Never give your home address, or go to the person’s home. Make sure that the venue is a public place where you will feel secure. Be sure to tell a trusted friend where you are going and if possible, leave your date’s name and telephone number with that friend.
Travel Carefully. If you are traveling to meet your date in another area, be sure to make your own car and hotel room arrangements. Do not tell your date where you will be staying, and never let him or her make the arrangements for you.
Have an Escape Plan. Never do anything you feel unsure about. Know the difference between a few nervous butterflies, and your instincts telling you “no way”. If you are in any way afraid of your date, safely diffuse the situation and leave as soon as possible. Your safety is always much more important than one person’s opinion of you.
Red Flags. Pay close attention to any displays of intense frustration, anger, controlling behaviors or attempts to find out your personal information. If your potential date shows any signs of unacceptable behavior, end the communication and find a new online friend. Be watchful of the following signs that could spell danger:
* Never introduces you to family members, friends or professional associates.
* Hesitates or fails to provide direct responses to your direct questions.
* Provides inconsistent information about personal details like appearance, age, marital status, interests, appearance, marital status or profession.
* Refuses to speak to you over the phone, even after establishing an ongoing online intimacy.
* Appears in person to be altogether different from his or her online personality.
Online dating is a fun and convenient way to meet new people. Largely, the women and men using Internet dating services are kind, interesting and honest people like you, wanting to meet someone with similar interests. Be cautious as you explore the world of online dating, and your experience should be fun and rewarding.
Tagged with: improved relationship • online date
Filed under: Relationship Improvement