174208801_f96fd4e58c-718714.jpgOnline dating safety doesn’t have to interfere with your fun. Thousands of people meet and fall in love online every day. But just as you’d be sensible when meeting a date for the first time in the “real world”, taking common sense precautions online can make the difference between the start of a beautiful relationship and getting involved with someone you later regret.

Here are our top 5 tips for finding true love online. Safely.

1) Don’t use your real name as your username. And never give out personal information online like your address or bank details. Don’t pick a provocative username if that’s not the sort of date you’re wanting to attract. A username like HotStuffXXX won’t attract someone interested in picket fences and apple pie.

2) Before you meet someone, reassure yourself that they really are who they say they are. Google their name or use an online background check service like Net Detective. Ask to see several recent pictures.

3) Don’t believe everything you read. People do lie on their online dating profiles. Statisticians claim that up to 30% of people using dating sites are married or already in a relationship. You particularly need to watch for this on free dating sites where anyone can sign up and there’s no financial commitment.

4) When you do arrange to meet someone, make sure you’ve spoken to them on the phone, and are confident they really are who they claim to be. Get to know someone well online before meeting in person. Leave an itinerary and expected return time with a friend (or if you feel safer, bring a friend with you). Make sure you have taxi money to get home in case you need to make a swift exit.

5) Be suspicious of sob stories. Scammers are adept at tugging at the heart and purse strings of unwary singles. Never give money to someone you’ve been corresponding with online. Scammers are very convincing can can spin convincing tales of woe and misfortune.

Follow your heart, but use your head too. Most people searching for partners online are just like you; genuine, nice singles. It’s the minority you need to look out for. Follow the basic online dating safety rules and you’ll increase your chances of meeting someone special online.

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