* Fill out your registration honestly. This acts as a screening process that may warn off potential predators and indicate to them that you are a savvy internet user and won't be duped.
* Sign up under an anonymous handle - never sign up with an online dating service that doesn't provide for this. You can find safe online dating services through personal referrals or the better business bureau but even if you feel secure never divulge your real name immediately.
* Ask and answer questions honestly. By doing so, you reveal your true self and may give a potential predator the signal that you are not willing to compromise your principles for any reason.
* When e-mails become a little impersonal ask her or him to call. You can tell a lot by the tone of someone's voice-but be warned there are some really good actors out there! Use a cell phone number not your home telephone!
* Never give out personal information such as your home address until you are reasonably sure you want to continue to see the person.
* If you decide to arrange a meeting always do so in a well-lit, safe location with plenty of help available should you need it. This is especially important for a first meeting and may be so for subsequent ones - at least till you feel sure they can be trusted.
Tell at least two people where you are going, when you will be home and give them the person's name and a description or photograph. Never allow the person to pick you up at home or work - meet them there and stay in your first location.
Safe online dating services should always offer help and guidance for safe online meetings. If there are no such warnings attached to the site, find another one. Safe online dating services should always tell you to be careful in your search for a new mate.
Quick Tips For Safe Online Dating
* Take your time getting to know somebody.
* Meet online anonymously.
* Chat online and exchange e-mails about likes and dislikes, goals and dreams. Always be careful of not divuging too much personal information too soon.
* Call him or her only if you are sure this is somebody you want to get to know better.
