Online dating seems to be the trend these days. True, there is an excitement in meeting a new persona and getting to know him without even meeting him. The mystery and suspense of the relation adds to its flavor. But there are so many instances of online dating gone terribly wrong. Blind trust and naiveté has caused much heartache for many unassuming women and even men. What can you do to keep yourself safe from the perils of online dating and enjoy the experience at the same time?

First, get to know a person well before agreeing to meet him. Agreed that there is a limit to how much you can glean about a person over the internet. For all you know, the handsome, successful businessman might be a bellboy or fraudster. If you have friends or family living in the same area as your date, have them run a secret check on this individual. No, it does not amount to spying. Your safety is your concern and it is your duty to ensure it.

Don’t give your address to your online friend and don’t invite him to your house until you have met him a couple of times and have confidence in him. Never agree to meet an online date at your home.

As much as possible, do not divulge your phone number to your date. If you must give a number, give him your cell phone number. Home telephone numbers can be used to track your address and other details. On the other hand, if you find your online date misusing your cell phone number, you can simply change it.

Let your first meeting be at a public place. There should be plenty of people and the place should be familiar to you. If possible station a few friends at random places to watch out for you.

Why not go on a double date? This is a good idea for those who have met over the internet and are seeing each other for the first time. Having friends along creates a sense of security and you will get to hear their opinions too.

Don’t drink because alcohol can affect the way you think. The person sitting next to you could be the worst you have met but alcohol can influence you to think otherwise. Worse yet, you may give in to his persistence and reveal too much about yourself.

Don’t let your online date pick you up from any point. Use your own means of transport. If you don’t have your own car, borrow or rent one for the day and make sure the fuel tank is full.

Stay alert the entire time. Yes, it can drain the fun from a date but there is no other alternative if you want to be safe. Watch out for any signs that things may not be right. Above all, trust your gut instincts. If you feel unsafe with your date, grab your coat and purse and rush home. Etiquette and politeness can take a back seat in this case.

Let your family or at least your close friends know where you are going, whom you are going with and what your plans are. Let them have an idea of when you will be home so that they can check out if you have returned safely.

Internet dating is a fun experience and there are many who have found true love over the internet. Nevertheless, it is wise to be cautious and responsible while dating online.

Jonathan Pitts

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