8 Dating Online Safety Tips | How to Stay Safe on the Apps

Navigating the world of online dating can be tricky at the best of times.

You’ve got endless options with all the apps available at the moment. But as much as it's about fun and flirting, it’s important to stay sharp and keep safe whilst meeting future beaus online.

Whether you're in the early stage of just swiping through profiles or getting ready to meet up IRL, knowing how to protect yourself is essential.  

That’s why we’re sharing 8 essential dating online safety tips for when you’re chatting with or meeting someone new:

1. Sign Up With an Email or Phone Number

For optimal dating online safety, register on dating apps using an email or a phone number instead of linking a social media account. 

This practice, supported by apps like Tinder and Bumble, minimises data sharing and supports your online privacy.

By sticking to your email or phone number, you ensure that your social media remains just yours. 

2. Use Unique Profile Photos

Use unique photos that aren’t posted elsewhere on your social media accounts for dating apps, as this makes it tougher for potential scammers to easily track down your other online profiles.

Not only does this shield your identity somewhat, but it also keeps your dating life and social media footprint separate. 

3. Adjust Your Social Media Settings

Setting your social media profiles to private is a savvy step for dating online safety. By tightening up who can see your posts and personal info, you effectively put a limit on what potential matches can discover about you outside of the dating app. 

It’s about creating a safe space where your private life isn't up for public consumption, ensuring that those who swipe right can't dig too deep without your permission.

4. Match Carefully With Others

Look closely at the profiles of potential matches and verify them through the features offered by dating platforms, being cautious of those without multiple photos or verification.

These features are designed to help confirm that the person you're talking to is genuinely representing themselves.

5. Keep Initial Conversations In-App

When you start chatting with someone new, keep those conversations within the dating app until you fully trust the other person. 

This offers a layer of protection, as these platforms are designed with safety features that limit the possibility of your personal information being exposed or misused.

By not sharing your phone number, email, or social media profiles too early, you maintain control over your personal data.

6. Recognise and Respond to Red Flags

Dating online safety is about recognising red flags, such as requests to transfer money. These requests can be glaring indicators of potential scams. 

When someone you’ve only met online asks for money, it should immediately raise concerns about their motives! 

These kinds of requests are common tactics used by scammers who exploit the emotional investment of others. 

7. Meet in a Public Space

For your first meeting, choose a public place and share your location with friends or family. 

An app like imabi Guardian is invaluable in this context, as it allows your trusted contacts to stay updated on your whereabouts through real-time location sharing. 

This feature is especially useful if you need to alert someone discreetly during your date.  If the situation becomes uncomfortable or if you feel uneasy at any point, you can send an immediate alert to your trusted contacts. 

Not only does this keep you safe, but it also provides peace of mind to both you and your loved ones. 

8. Trust Your Instincts

Listening to your instincts is critical to dating online safety. If something feels off, trust your gut and take action.

Always pay attention to any nagging doubts or uneasy feelings that arise. Whether it’s a questionable message, you notice something doesn't add up in someone's story, or you just feel uncomfortable, these are signs to be careful or even back off from seeing that person. 

imabi Guardian is an invaluable tool for anyone dating online. Offering features such as location tracking and emergency alerts, you can breathe a sigh of relief and enjoy safer dating experiences.

You can download our personal safety app today via the App Store or the Google Play Store.

For more information, take a look at our recent blog on all the features of imabi Guardian.