We can all agree that dating apps and online platforms are powerful connectors in the worldwide dating landscape. According to studies, more than thirty percent of US citizens used online services or apps. Similarly, as you would want to meet someone new, no matter whether it happens offline or online, it is important to understand a few things beforehand.

For instance, only a few apps are conducting criminal background checks on users, which is why it is up to you to determine red flags and whether you feel comfortable meeting up with someone. Still, you should know that if you do experience sexual violence while dating online, it is not your fault.

That is why you should follow certain steps and tricks that will help you ensure safer interaction regarding online dating services and apps. It doesn’t matter whether you are interacting in person or through virtual means. 

Tips for Safely Connecting Through Online Dating Apps

When using dating apps, we recommend you to use different images for your dating profile. The main idea is that it is simple to create a reverse image search by using Google and other search engines. 

The percentage of problems rises in the world of trans dating, especially since the stigma is still around and keeps us in explosive situations where numerous individuals can be aggressive if they find out about your sexual preferences or gender. 

It means that your image on your dating profile should differ from the one you are using on Facebook or Instagram, because if someone reverse searches your photo, your social media pages will be visible. Protect yourself by choosing a completely different photo for the dating app, which will offer you the required protection.

Another important consideration is that you should avoid sharing motion or live images. The main reason for that is because photos taken in live mode feature geolocation information that can be passed with the image. We recommend you to be cautious when sharing such photos with potential dates and matches. 

You should avoid connecting with suspicious profiles. In case someone does not have a biography linked with the profile, you should consider it a red flag. Apart from the biography, check out social media accounts. If the person only has a single picture, chances are high that you are talking with a fake profile. 

It is vital to differentiate fake from real profiles, which will prevent phishing issues. We recommend you to avoid connecting with people that have not shared relevant information with the public. The best way to learn more about dating safety tips is by checking here for more info. 

Another way to deal with potential problems is checking out whether the person with whom you are talking has social media. If you know the real name, you can check different social media pages to check out whether you have mutual friends and make sure that you are not being catfished by fake social accounts.

On the other hand, if you have noticed someone suspicious, we recommend you to report and block the user, especially if the communication was inappropriate. You can do it anonymously after or before you match. 

As with other personal interactions, some people may misrepresent themselves, which is why you should trust your instincts to determine whether someone is honest or not. The list we will provide below will offer you a few examples that are almost always suspicious and considered as red flags. 

• If someone asks for financial assistance due to a sudden personal crisis, it is a catfishing, and you should block the person as soon as possible.
• When someone claims to be from the US but is currently traveling, working or living abroad, you should be cautious. 
• People who claim that they are widowed with children may also be suspicious. 
• Always check out for communication methodology, because people that are giving vague answers to specific questions are considered as red flags. 
• People that are trying to cross the line immediately after you start a conversation with too romantic, too good-to-be-true moments are most likely manipulating you. Therefore, they will try to pressure you to provide your phone number, home address, or meet with you in person.

Meeting in Person for the First Time

After at least a few weeks of communication, but you should wait until you are completely comfortable; you may decide to meet in person. However, we recommend you schedule a video call beforehand, which will help you ensure the match is the one who claims to be on the profile. If they resist a video call, it is a warning sign you should avoid in-person meetings. 

Check out this website: https://www.cdc.gov/std/treatment-guidelines/trans.htm to learn more about transgender people before you start dating them. 

At the same time, always tell your friend that you are meeting someone for the first time. You can take a screenshot of your date’s profile and send it to someone you trust, combined with the location where you plan to meet. Create a fail-safe moment and check in that will help you ensure that everything is in perfect order.