Online dating can be an excellent way to find love and connect with others. However, taking steps to ensure your safety while doing so is essential. You can start by equipping yourself with the necessary tools and information to navigate the online dating world. This way, you can make the most of your online dating experience without putting yourself at risk. Remember that many people have found success with online dating. Meeting the love you desire can be safe and enjoyable with some precautions. Take your time because building trust and connection takes time. Allow the relationship to develop naturally and at a pace that feels comfortable for you.

1 . Understand what you are looking for

Before joining a dating site, do your research. Consider what you're looking for in a partner and what kind of relationship you want. Check out the site's features, likes, and favorites, and keep the cost in mind. These factors can help you find the best dating site for you. Stay up to date with online dating safety tips.

2. Be ready to invest in the right site to meet the right person:

Know your worth and understand your values. Invest the money by choosing a reputable site with good reviews, hoping to meet someone who fits within your class and values. Getting caught up in the excitement of online dating is easy but remember to trust your judgement. If something doesn't feel right or you have doubts about someone, it's better to err on caution.

3. Be emotionally intelligent about emotional fraudsters:

Be careful of a person who seems to have a better ability to understand you from your point of view yet faking. Based on this, fraudsters use their emotional competence to deceive their victims. Be on the watch for such narcissists. Online dating can be overwhelming, but at times, it's okay to take breaks and step away from the process if you feel overwhelmed or need time to recharge. Your mental and emotional well-being should always be a priority.

4. Limit the amount of information you give out, especially if on social media:

The internet is a potent channel in our everyday lives. We use social media to learn, communicate, and work. Be cautious of how you share your photos. Turn off notifications, set time limits, and change settings on your phone, iPad, etc. Do not share credit card information, passwords, emails, bank account details, etc.

5. Have three realistic values you are looking for in mind:

Do not be romantic or abstract when expressing your core philosophy. Moral values, etc. Be honest and sincere, e.g., your faith and needs that make you emotionally happy.

6. Facetime and talk more before the meeting:

Talking to one another encourages participation and understanding from different perspectives; from making conversation, you learn to trust through verbal cues such as eye contact, tone of voice, and facial expressions. Video chat before meeting to verify the person's identity and establish comfort. This can help you assess their behaviour and demeanour. Keep your conversation within the dating platform's messaging system to maintain your privacy and security for as long as possible. Avoid sharing personal email addresses or moving the conversation to platforms too soon.

7. Take your time to Meet up; emotional fraudsters feed on speed dating.

Don't rush; be cautious, sensitive, and patient. Do not let your past conversations on love and romance take hold of you. Be present in the moment. Your first date is all about the two of you. Make the time to listen more. Online dating can be overwhelming at times. Taking breaks and stepping away from the process is okay if you feel overwhelmed or need time to recharge. Your mental and emotional well-being should always be a priority.

8. Feeling alone can lead you to the wrong hands:

You might think loneliness cannot kill you, but you would be wrong. Acknowledge your emotional state. Moreover, do not allow that to be a yardstick for falling into the wrong hands. 40 to 60 percent of people feel lonely at some point in their lives, so you are not alone if this is the case.

9. Set serious boundaries to help you examine people's character while dating:

Charge and set boundaries for how you would like your dates to go. Going for walks or meeting at your favourite breakfast or lunch spots is a good idea. Avoid meeting in unsafe or isolated places; always remember that opposites attract. This means avoiding things like kissing, romance, touching sensitive areas, or even going on a live video chat naked if you're not comfortable with it. Always take your time and only do what you're comfortable with.

10. The more vulnerable you are, the easier you become prey:

Vulnerability is not a weakness but rather a superpower. Do not take uncertain risks or emotional exposure if you don't feel safe. Emotional maturity is a critical point in this regard. When meeting someone for the first time, choose a public location such as a café, restaurant, or park. Inform a friend or family member about your plans and share your location. Arrange your transportation. Avoid accepting someone you have just met.

11. Ask the most crucial question early on.

Refrain from assuming they want the same thing as you. Remember to ask your date what they are looking for on your first date. Many are on the site for casual, fun, or one-night encounters. Never feel desperate if you hope this will lead to a healthy/marriage. If they are not speaking your language, be ready to say goodbye.

12. Say your goodbyes with understanding

Understand how you both feel about moving forward before you say goodbye. This way, no one will be waiting for who will call first. If the day went well, remember to communicate your thoughts.

Online dating can be a positive and enjoyable experience when you approach it cautiously and focus on personal safety. Trust your instincts, set boundaries, and prioritise your well-being.

Stay well and never struggle alone.

By Abigail Borquaye @ Healing Wings Support.