10 Common-Sense Dating Safety Tips

1. Use Online (Instant) Messaging Until You Are Comfortable

The online messaging feature provided by the online dating service(s) you use will
help you determine whether a relationship connection made through that service
is worth exploring further. Use it until you feel comfortable that the person is
really who they represent themselves to be.

2. Do Not Give Out Personal Information

At first, since your contact is anonymous by email, you do NOT need to give your
full name, telephone number, etc. to the other individual. Only after YOU feel
comfortable should you exchange personal information, and not a moment
sooner.

3. Meet in a Public Place

Until you feel comfortable with someone, you should meet in a public place, where
you feel safe.

4. Meet in a Group or Bring a Friend

When and IF you decide to set up a personal meeting, it may be fun to go out in a
group or to bring a friend along. This will make you feel more at ease.

5. Set Up Free Email For Online Dating Correspondence

There are so many great free email services available on the Web, you should use
it to your advantage. This is especially advisable for people accessing the internet
from work. Just remember to write down your new password and member ID
somewhere.

6. Ask For Personal References

If it will make you feel more comfortable, ask for a personal reference or two. It
will also help to set the precedent early on in the relationship that you are a
responsible adult who is the captain of his or her own ship.

7. Do Not Rush to Buy Gifts and Don't Lend Money

In this day and age, scam artists appear everywhere, maybe even in the Cyber -
singles world. Use common sense ... Until you know someone well enough to
consider it a relationship (friend or lover), don't buy gifts. And NEVER lend
money.

8. When You Give a Phone Number, Give Your Work Number

If you have some personal space in your office to talk on the phone, it may be
best to give out that phone number first, should you decide to exchange numbers.
You cell phone number could be another option.

9. Exchange Photos Via Email or Regular Mail

If you want to be sure that the other person is telling the truth about their looks,
ask for a CURRENT photo.

10. Make Your Own Decision On Personal Meetings

Only YOU can decide whether you feel a personal meeting is worthwhile; listen to
your own instincts, trust your intuitions and gut-level responses. And don't allow

yourself to be pressured into ANYTHING!

11. Using NickNames (Ok - so this is an extra)

Call yourself 'Sexy Lady' or 'Pretty Woman' and see how many men try to drag
you into their private virtual hot-tub! Protect yourself from unwanted advances.
Use a gender-neutral nickname in chat rooms, discussion groups, and message
boards.

Acknowledgment: These dating safety tips suggested by MetroDate.com