Many social media users have shared the unfortunate encounters they’ve had on online dating apps, where some were robbed or even scammed by their dates.
This has become a pattern on some apps, with a number of people unfortunately kidnapped and murdered. Preventing robbery under the guise of a date requires vigilance, as perpetrators often build trust over time, create a sense of urgency, or use “love bombing” techniques to lower your guard.
Also see: No awkward zooms, just sparks! Master online dating like a pro
Watch:
@bakojja_m213 Tinder was ghetto for me PS that’s my PERSONAL EXPERIENCE so if you got lucky on there don’t come for me lol #tinder #tinderswindler #scammers #datingapps #fypシ゚ #datingapp #self❤️ #bakojja_m213 ♬ original sound – Self❤️
Also see: The dynamics of online dating
According to Our Wave, here is how to keep safe on dating apps:
- Protect your information – One trick to keeping as much to yourself as possible is to avoid linking your other social media accounts, which could have information that you did not share on the dating app and that could be used against you.
- Be cautious with photos – It’s normal, and even recommended to some degree, to want to use the most fun and attractive photos of yourself that reveal key aspects of your personality and how you want to be presented! However, make sure to check over your photos before posting them online. You wouldn’t want to accidentally reveal identifiable landmarks or personal information.
- Set boundaries – Determine what you’re okay with and what you’re not okay with before getting too deep into connections. That way, it’s harder for someone to push at your boundaries.
- Don’t send money – It’s generally a wise decision, whether on a dating app or not, to never send money to someone you’ve met online.
- Meet in public – Avoid choosing or agreeing to a date spot that is isolated from others, such as your date’s house/apartment or the woods. Always choose a public, populated place where others can see you in case something were to go wrong.
- Control your transportation – Ensure that you’re not relying on your match for a ride to the date. This can put you in a dangerous situation or simply cause you discomfort if the date is going sour and you wish to leave, but have to use them to get home.
- Have an exit plan – Make sure that you have a plan on how to end the date and leave early if needed. This can include a friend or family member that is available to pick you up if you’ve had too many drinks, or something goes wrong with your transportation method. A classic and good method is to have a friend ready to call you after you text them.
Also see: Breaking The Online Dating Taboo
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