Online dating safety

Meeting new people should be exciting, not risky. A few simple habits handle nearly all of the risk — and cost you almost nothing.

The 60-second safety checklist

Keep personal details private until trust is earned.
Video chat before you meet in person.
Always meet in a public place, first time.
Arrange your own transport there and back.
Tell a friend where you will be and when.
Never send money, gift cards, or banking details.
Trust your gut — leaving is always allowed.

Go deeper

Online Dating Safety: A Practical Checklist

Meeting new people should be exciting, not risky. These are the habits that keep you safe without killing the fun.

9 Dating App Red Flags Worth Paying Attention To

Most matches are genuine. But a few patterns are worth noticing early — before you have invested weeks in a conversation.

Romance Scam Warning Signs Everyone Should Know

How to recognize the emotional and financial red flags of an online romance scam, and the steps to take if something feels off.

How to Spot a Fake Dating Profile

A practical checklist for reading photos, bios, and behavior so you can tell real matches from bots, catfish, and scam accounts.

First Date Safety Tips for Meeting Someone Online

Simple, practical steps for a safe first meeting, from vetting beforehand to trusting your gut in the moment.

If you ever feel unsafe. If you are in immediate danger, contact your local emergency number. If someone harasses or threatens you, save the evidence, then block and report them using the app's built-in tools. Keeping yourself safe is never an overreaction.