Online Dating Safety: Protecting Yourself

Online dating opens opportunities for meeting people, but safety should always come first. These tips help protect you while seeking connections.

Profile Safety

Don't include identifying information in your profile—workplace, specific neighborhood, school, or daily routines. Use photos that don't reveal your home or frequently visited locations.

Consider using a nickname rather than your real name until you've built trust with someone.

Communication Boundaries

Stay on the dating platform for initial conversations. Scammers often push to move to text or other apps quickly. Take your time getting to know someone.

Never share financial information, SSN, or send money to someone you haven't met in person—regardless of their story.

Meeting Safely

When ready to meet, choose public places. Tell a friend where you're going and check in with them. Have your own transportation to and from the date.

Trust your instincts—if something feels off, end the date early. Your safety matters more than politeness.

Red Flags to Watch

• Refusing video calls or additional photos
• Sob stories requesting money
• Pushing to meet somewhere private
• Inconsistent details about their life
• Love bombing—excessive attention too quickly

Platform-Specific Features

Many dating sites offer safety features—eHarmony has guided communication, while platforms like InterracialCupid offer profile verification.

Browse our dating site reviews to find platforms with robust safety features.