Your Safety Matters: This checklist was created by our team of dating safety experts. No item on this list is sponsored. Your safety is our top priority.
Your Safety Score 0 / 25
Check off items to track your dating safety readiness
🔒
Profile Security 0/5
✓
Use only your first name on your dating profileNever include your last name, workplace, or identifiable locations in photos
✓
Use unique photos not found on your social mediaPrevents reverse image search from linking to your other accounts
✓
Create a separate email address for dating appsKeeps your primary email private and reduces spam risk
✓
Enable two-factor authentication on all dating accountsPrevents unauthorized access even if your password is compromised
✓
Review your privacy settings on each appDisable location sharing, limit who can see your profile, and control data sharing
💬
Messaging Safety 0/5
✓
Keep conversations on the dating app until you are comfortableBuilt-in messaging gives you the option to report and block if needed
✓
Never share financial information or send moneyNo legitimate date will ask for your bank details, crypto, or gift cards
✓
Beware of love-bombing -- intense affection from day oneGenuine connections build gradually; instant declarations of love are a major red flag
✓
Do a video call before meeting in personConfirms the person matches their photos and helps you gauge comfort level
✓
Trust your instincts -- if something feels off, it probably isYou are never obligated to continue a conversation that makes you uncomfortable
🍷
First Date Precautions 0/5
✓
Always meet in a public place for the first few datesCoffee shops, restaurants, and busy parks are ideal first date locations
✓
Tell a trusted friend or family member your date plansShare who you are meeting, where, and when you expect to be home
✓
Share your live location with someone you trustUse your phone's built-in location sharing feature during the date
✓
Arrange your own transportation to and from the dateNever rely on your date for a ride -- maintain the ability to leave independently
✓
Set up a check-in time with a friend during the dateAgree on a time to text or call, and create a code word for "come get me"
🚩
Red Flags to Watch For 0/5
✓
I know how to identify catfish profiles (too-perfect photos, no social media)Use reverse image search on their photos -- if they appear on stock photo sites, walk away
✓
I will not ignore inconsistencies in their storyIf details change or do not add up, ask questions and pay attention to the answers
✓
I will block anyone who pressures me for intimate contentAnyone who pressures you for photos or videos before you are ready does not respect your boundaries
✓
I know the signs of romance scams (sob stories, money requests)Common stories: stranded abroad, medical emergency, customs fees, investment opportunities
✓
I will report suspicious profiles to the dating appReporting helps protect other users and improves platform safety for everyone
💻
Digital Privacy 0/5
✓
Use a phone number from a VoIP service instead of your real numberGoogle Voice, TextNow, or similar services create a buffer before sharing your actual number
✓
Google yourself to see what information is publicly availableRemove or restrict anything that reveals your home address, workplace, or daily routine
✓
Keep social media profiles private until you know someone wellConnecting on Instagram or Facebook too early gives access to your network and personal details
✓
Be cautious with photos -- strip metadata before sharingPhotos can contain GPS coordinates revealing your location. Most messaging apps strip this data, but direct sharing may not.
✓
Know your app's data policies and deletion proceduresUnderstand what data the app collects and how to permanently delete your account and data

Why Online Dating Safety Matters

Online dating has connected millions of people worldwide, but it also comes with risks that every user should understand. According to recent studies, approximately 1 in 10 dating profiles are fake, and romance scams cost victims billions of dollars annually. The good news is that most risks are avoidable with basic precautions. This checklist distills the advice of dating safety experts into actionable steps you can follow immediately.

For more guidance on finding the right platform, explore our Best Dating Apps 2026 review where we evaluate safety features across all major platforms. You might also find our Online Dating Tips and Dating After Divorce guides helpful.

Frequently Asked Questions

The most critical safety tips include: never share personal financial information, always meet in public places for first dates, tell a friend your plans, verify profiles through video calls before meeting, trust your instincts if something feels wrong, and use the dating app's built-in messaging rather than giving out your phone number immediately.

Key red flags include: they refuse to video call, their photos look too professional or stolen, they profess deep love very quickly, they claim to be overseas (military, oil rig, etc.), they ask for money or gift cards, and their story has inconsistencies. Use reverse image search on their photos and never send money to someone you have not met in person.

Use only your first name on dating profiles. Avoid sharing your last name, workplace, or home address until you have met someone in person and feel comfortable. This prevents strangers from finding your social media, home address, or workplace through a simple search.

Before meeting: verify their identity through a video call, tell a trusted friend where you are going and who you are meeting, share your live location, meet in a public place, arrange your own transportation, and set up a check-in time with your friend. Trust your instincts -- if anything feels off, it is okay to cancel.

R
Rachel Adams

Relationship coach and dating app researcher. 5 years in digital dating.