Love is in the air and the cupid is on the go to find your right match. However, instead of sniffing the love in the air, the youth is looking for the love of their life electronically. The popularity of digital dating has skyrocketed as compared to when it originally came into the picture. user penetration in the Indian online dating market which stands at 2.7% in 2019 is expected to hit 3.2% by 2023, according to online market researcher Statista. Moreover, dating apps and matrimony websites have given single people an easy and comfortable new way to connect with people.
However, with this convenience of use comes some novel yet basic problems, particularly in the form of safety. For instance, communicating with strangers online can expose you to the risk for frauds, digital theft, online harassment, stalking, dating abuse, cat-fishing, and other scams. Added to the fact that if you finally make up your mind to meet that “interesting” person in life, then you might expose yourself to physical danger too!
The whole purpose of finding your “THE ONE” might fail if you put your own safety in jeopardy. We have curated some tips for your journey to safe digital dating and let your love blossom.
1. Avoid interacting with suspicious profiles.
If the person you connected with has no bio, linked social media accounts, and has only posted one picture, it might be a fake account. It’s important to use caution if you choose to match with someone you have so little information about.
2. Pay close attention to the location settings in dating apps.
Many dating apps use GPS, but unknowns shouldn’t have access to information that lets them find your locality or specific neighbourhood.
3. Upload unique photos for your dating profile.
It is not very tough to do a reverse image search with Google. If your dating profile has a picture that also shows up on your social account, it will be easier for someone to find you on socials.
4. It is advisable to use the dating app’s messaging system.
It might be less convenient than texting with your phone’s default messaging system, but it gives you extra safety
5. The venue for your first date should be a public place.
The first date is all about getting to know each other, its a great time to try out a coffee shop, wander through a museum, or chat over dinner and drinks.
6. Always stay aware and attentive.
You should be able to trust those around you to be respectful, safe, and kind, but unfortunately that’s not always reality. Take extra care of yourself when you’re out with a stranger. Don’t leave your drink unattended, drink less than you would if you were out with close friends, and avoid staying out until you’re really tired.
Remember to KEEP YOUR SAFETY AS A PRIORITY. Keep the tips above in mind to make sure you and your date feel comfortable.
Happy and Safe Dating !!
-Aditi Gupta
Author’s Bio :
A vivacious and lively girl living in Delhi, on her voyage for exploration of colours in life. A glimpse of what she does: Read, write, eat, Repeat!
