Sikkerhetstips for dating

While many of us may know how to create an interesting online dating profile, some may get a little carried away and reveal more information than necessary.

An online dating profile should be interesting and inviting; however, it should not be a way for potential fraudsters to easily capture detailed information about you. When you are creating your online dating profile, remember to keep your safety in mind too.

Things to keep in mind:

• Use an appropriate username
• Choose a password that is difficult to guess
• Keep personal details personal

Don’t rush into things. We advise keeping your conversations on the Cupid platform while getting to know someone. Users with bad intentions often try to move the conversation to text, messaging apps, email, or phone, quite promptly.

Watch out for scammers who claim to be from your country but create the narrative that they’re ‘stuck’ somewhere else, especially if they ask for financial help to return home. Scammers are likely to avoid meeting in person or talking on a phone/video call - this perhaps means they are not who they say they are. If someone is avoiding your questions or pushing for a serious relationship without meeting or getting to know you first — this is a red flag.

Never share personal information with people you don’t know - such as your home or work address, or details about your daily routine (e.g., that you go to a particular cafe each morning) If you have children, it is also best to limit the information you share about them to anyone you have met online. Avoid sharing details such as their names or school.

Block and report anyone that violates our terms. Here are some examples of violations:

• Requests for money
• Harassment or threats
• Spam or solicitation
• You can report any profile based on concerns about offensive behavior
• For more information, check out our Community Guidelines.

Tell a friend or family member of your plans, including when and where you’re going. Make sure to always keep your phone on you in case of an emergency.

Meet for the first few times in a populated, public place — never at your home, your date’s home, or any other secluded location. If the date pressures you to go to a private location, end the date immediately.

Be aware of the effects of drugs or alcohol on you — they can impair your judgment and alertness. If your date tries to pressure you to use drugs or drink more than you’re comfortable with, hold your ground and end the date.

We feel it’s important to control how you get to and from your date so that, if necessary, you can leave at any time. If you’re driving yourself, it’s a good idea to have a backup plan such as a ride-share app or have a trusted friend or family member pick you up.

We believe you should always trust your gut instincts; if you feel uneasy or uncomfortable, your feelings are valid, and It’s okay to leave the date earlier than initially intended. If this is the case, ask the bartender or server for help.

You should always have eyes on your drink and know where it is coming from - only accept drinks poured or served directly by the bartender or server. Many substances slipped into drinks to facilitate sexual assault are odorless, colorless, and tasteless.

Additionally, keep your phone, bag, wallet, and anything containing personal information on you at all times. Be sure not to leave these items unattended.

Before you start dating online, ensure your computer is 100% secure and does not put you and your information at risk.

Set up a new email account for online dating that will be separate from all personal and work arrangements. That way, you’ll keep track of online dating communication and be able to isolate any unwanted or inappropriate content easily.

Choosing a good password is essential - comprising a mixture of uppercase, lowercase, numbers & special characters. An easily compromised password could result in your account hijacking, and worse still, the hacker could use your details for ID theft.

Condoms can significantly reduce the risk of contracting and passing on STIs like HIV when used correctly and consistently.

Not all STIs show symptoms, and it is important to protect yourself and your sexual partners. Stay on top of your health and prevent the spread of STIs by getting tested regularly.

Consent is an agreement between participants to engage in sexual activity; it should be clearly and freely communicated between both parties. A verbal and affirmative expression of consent can help you and your partner understand and respect each other’s boundaries.

You or your partner can withdraw consent at any time. Do not proceed if your partner seems uncomfortable or unsure or they cannot consent due to the effects of drugs or alcohol.