Daily Action Enforcer

Online dating is an exciting way to meet singles and that special someone, but sometimes people do not always use common sense when chatting or when they meet for the first time. By following a few safety guidelines and recognizing the common cons that occur in the online dating world, you can keep yourself protected.

Remember to use common sense when dating online.

First, we must recognize the truth: anyone from anywhere can create a profile with a picture they found on Google image search. If anyone ever asks you to donate money or send them money because they are in an emergency situation, don’t do it. If you come across anyone asking you for personal information, they may be trying to steal your identity. Information that scam artists need to steal your identity include your name, social security number, bank account information, credit card information, address and phone number.

The following is a list of the common cons that are used in Internet dating

Talking with people online becomes increasingly difficult as message lengths are shortened While you’re dating online you may come across some of the things I’m about to list below. If you do happen to see these things, be careful when talking with the person because it may be a dating scam.

- Messages to you seem vague or doesn’t match the conversation you are trying to have.
– Receiving immediate responses back to your private messages/e-mails could be the sign of a program that is automatically responding to you
– The person sends you a link to another website tellling you to sign up because they want to talk there.
– They are asking for money because of an emergency and you’re the only person who can help them.
– They were just widowed.
– Wants you to donate to a “cause.”
– They say they’re traveling, living overseas, deployed and are requesting money.
– Wants you to send them gifts through a specific service.
– Talks about meeting or finding your profile was “written in the stars,” “destiny” or “fate.”
– You go to message them and find that their account is deleted, yet you see their picture under another name later on.
– Their photo seems unrealistic or modified in some way. If the dating website you use has a report feature and you come across any suspicious activity, report that person. It will flag the account to administrators who should personally review the account and delete it if necessary.

When you find someone that you would like to meet offline, follow these guidelines and stay safe when you meet in the real world.

- Never arrange to be picked up at your house.
– Tell friends and family where you’re going and what time you should be back.
– Keep your cell phone with you at all times.
– Meet in a public place with lots of people.
– Stay sober or drink with caution.
– Don’t assume the person you’re with is safe.
– Avoid the perception of any obligation by going ‘dutch’ on the bill.
– Until you absolutely trust them, use a hotel if you want to get freaky.
– Practice safe sex.
– Remain alert until the date is over and you’re home safely.