Online Dating - 5 Essential Safety Tips
By: Claire Gaskin | Posted: 09th September 2005
So, you've decided to take the plunge and follow in the
footsteps of countless other singles who know that online
dating is a successful route to meeting new friends and
finding the perfect partner. But, what do you do when you
find someone you like?
Initially, you'll want to keep all communication by email
and get to know a little more about the other person. Email
also gives you time to think about what you want to say
whilst allowing you the distance and privacy to keep things
from moving too quickly. And just like your daily post,
you'll be surprised how much you will look forward to
checking your inbox to see if you have new mail!
Once an email friendship has been established you may feel
comfortable enough to talk over the telephone. Take your
time over giving out your telephone number though, if you
decide that you don't want to pursue the friendship you
can't take your number back.
Ok. Let's assume that you've emailed and chatted on the
telephone. You've decided that you really like this person
and would love to meet up. Stop right there! Before you get
carried away with the excitement that the prospect of new
love brings, read these important safety tips prior to
taking the final step of meeting that great new date:
. Always tell a friend where and when you are meeting.
. Don't give out personal information unless you feel
confident to do so, especially your home address.
. Never give out personal financial details. Never give or
send out money to someone you've just met.
. If travelling to meet, make your own arrangements for
overnight accommodation and don't give out the name or
address of your hotel.
. Follow your instincts. If you feel unsafe of unsure of
your situation, never be embarrassed or afraid to make your
excuses and leave.
On the whole, just like in everyday life, most people you
meet via the Internet will be genuine but it is important to
be aware that some may not. Just following a few basic rules
will ensure your safety. You might even want to arrange to
'check in' with a friend to let them know how the date is
going - if your friends are as nosey as mine this will be
the first thing they ask you to do!
Finally, relax and enjoy yourself. You never know, it could
be the start of something beautiful.
About the Author
Occupation: Social researcher
Claire Gaskin is a social researcher who previously worked for many years in the counselling field.
Claire runs two successful online dating sites:
www.music-mate.com and www.fetish-mate.com
Contact her at
http://www.claire.gaskin@music-mate.com
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Tags: email, money, inbox, plunge, home address, excitement, footsteps, telephone number, perfect partner, new date, meeting new friends, friendship, instincts, safety tips, overnight accommodation, dating