Online Dating Safety
The Importance of a Background Check
Not all dating sites are created equal. Many online dating sites don't require members to submit a background check before approving their profile.
As a result, users are able to create false profiles potentially with ulterior motives. Often times, adult websites will create profiles displaying provocative images of men and women to lure singles into purchasing inappropriate online chat sessions.
Online predators may also use dating sites as a channel to locate their next victim.
Take measures against these types of online dating profiles. When you're ready to take your online relationship to the next level, be safe by conducting a personal background check first.
Online Dating: Tips for Success
Online dating can be fun and liberating. For some, it's easier to convey your true self through a less obtrusive means of communicating like email or instant messaging. There's a particular thrill in online courtship that is very different than traditional dating. Here are few tips to get the most out of your online dating experience.
Create a unique profile. We can't stress this enough. The amount of content on your profile is directly proportional to amount of visitors you'll get. Also, the more new content you add, the more often you'll be visited. Don't complete your profile fields with one word answers. Let your prospective date know you're capable of forming coherent sentences that fully illustrate your likes and dislikes.
Your profile makes or breaks the viewer's decision to contact you. It's your chance to make a lasting impression.
Always be honest. Don't lie about your employment status or whether you have kids or not. If you don't want to answer these fields when filling out your online dating profile, then make sure you say a little bit about why in the comments section (i.e. there's more depth to me than my occupation, so I'd like to discuss that with someone who's seeking something beyond the superficial).
Don't talk about things that are inappropriate or too personal in your online dating profile. This information is free to be viewed by anyone in that network or (depending on the site) surfing the web. You want to maintain your online reputation- especially if you plan to be active in the online dating space.
Be creative when choosing your username. There are tons of Jennys or Bobs, but there's only one you. Make your online name unique, after all – our online personas are extensions of ourselves.
Respond to everyone who visits your profile. If you're not interested, don't just ignore someone. Just as it is in the physical world, this type of behavior online is rude. Also, many online dating services indicate your response rate on your profile. If it shows you only respond to 10 percent of your emails mr/ms right may be apprehensive in contacting you.
