Safe Dating – Online & Off!
By Steve Fulop
From Steve Fulop, MyPrivateLine. For millions of individuals seeking online romance
and special connections, the key to safe dating is safeguarding personal
information from strangers who might have other ideas.
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If you are using online dating websites, set up a free web-based e-mail
account, such as Yahoo or Hotmail, to keep your dating life and your personal
life separate. Avoid using personal information in your profile, such as
your birth date, when setting up your e-mail address, and be sure your
outgoing name only contains your first name or an alias.
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Phone numbers are gateways to your personal identity. Safeguard your
privacy by setting up your own personal and disposable toll-free number
at www.MyPrivateLine.com.
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Tell a friend or family member where you are going and who you are meeting.
Knowing that your friends and family have a way of finding you will give
everyone peace of mind and make you feel more at ease meeting your new
acquaintance.
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Meet in a public place, not your apartment, and keep it short. A quick
coffee at a popular café will allow you both to get a feel for if you want
to meet again.
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Stick to plan. Be wary of any last minute changes, such as an invitation
to get picked up at home, or a change of venue.
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Know your limits. If drinking alcohol is part of your date, then drink
in moderation. Tip: Sit away from the bar and walk over to the bar and
order drinks directly from the bartender. Standing and walking helps you
feel how much you've drunk.
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Have an exit strategy. Informing your date beforehand that you have to
be elsewhere at a certain time gives you an excellent reason to leave should
the meeting turn sour.
SF
