Stay Safe While Swiping: Tips for Using Dating Apps Responsibly

Dating applications have changed how people date, simplifying it for you to meet and connect with others. 

According to a study by the Pew Research Center, around 30% of adults in the US have active accounts on dating apps and websites. 

What does this mean?

Well, in simple terms, it means that they’re firmly set in the market, and like everything that involves meeting new people and dealing with technology, you need to stay safe. 

These are some security tips if you want to give online dating a go: 

1.  Choose the right app

Before starting to use dating apps, take your time to choose the right app for what you’re looking for and the people you want to meet. Search for applications that expect users to connect their social accounts or give an official ID during their set-up process. 

Avoid applications that give profiles to any random details, as they can be used by people with harmful intent.

2. Keep your personal data safe

When creating your profile for a dating app, exercise caution before giving out any personal information. Try not to disclose your complete name, your personal residence, your telephone number, or whatever other confidential data that could be utilized to recognize you. 

Be careful about the pictures you use for your profile and try not to post any that could show your location, like pictures taken outside your home or place of work.

3. Keep your app and device safe

While using dating applications, keeping your app and phone safe is vital. The most recent security patches and updates should be installed on your applications and operating system.

You should use a unique, strong password for each dating app account, and you should not use the same password for multiple accounts. Use two-factor authentication (2FA) whenever possible to get an additional level of security.

4. Protect your location with a VPN

Using a VPN is one way to maintain your privacy while using dating apps. Your web traffic is encoded, and your IP address is concealed with a VPN, making it harder for others to follow where you are. 

This can be particularly important if you're using a dating application in a public spot. Use a VPN installer and keep it turned on so a catfisher can’t find your location. 

5. Get to know your match

For a lot of people, meeting in person and seeing if there’s chemistry is a better way to get to know each other than online. It’s exciting, and you can have a good time. 

However, we all know that it’s not the safest move. It’s better to just spend a bit of time chatting or video calling in order to verify the other person’s identity and see if you have something in common. 

Talking online will help you identify any red flags or inconsistencies in the other person’s story. The moment you feel unease or awkward with their views or reactions, you can listen to your intuition and get out of the situation safely. 

6. Meet in public

If you do meet in person, choose a public location with other people around. Don't meet at their or your house or in a dark place. Consider letting a friend or family member know where you're going and who you're meeting – you can even use a tracking app. 

Make it a point to leave the date or request help from the staff or others around you in the event that you feel awkward.

7. Trust your instinct 

Well, if something doesn't feel right, it probably isn't. Avoid anyone who tries to force you to meet them or asks for money or personal information from you. 

At the same time, don’t force yourself to talk to someone if you don't get along with them or if they make you feel uneasy. Always remember that your safety is the most important thing.

In conclusion, while using dating apps safely is essential, they can be a great way to meet new people. Always prioritize your safety, and if you feel threatened or uncomfortable, don't be afraid to act. By following these tips, you can take advantage of the benefits of online dating while minimizing the risks.

You can get all the advantages of online dating while at the same time limiting the dangers by choosing the right application, keeping individual data hidden, investing energy in getting to know your match, meeting out in the open, and paying attention to your gut feelings. Always prioritize your safety, and if you feel threatened or uncomfortable, don't be afraid to act