Online Dating: 10 Ways To Avoid Stalkers and Assorted Nutcases

With the fast pace of daily life, many people are looking for a more efficient way of doing everything—including dating.  More and more people are turning to the internet as a way of meeting prospective partners.  

Though online dating may be helpful, it also comes with its own set of risks.  Follow these tips to protect yourself while seeking out love online.

1. Avoid Free Dating Sites

While free sites may save you money, they’ll probably cost you time and can even jeopardize your safety.  These sites don’t run background checks on individuals to weed out would-be fakers and scammers. 

This means you’ll have to sift through endless profiles while trying to use your best judgment as to whether Roger or Michael look like people more interested in stealing your money than stealing your heart. 

Also, people who pay for dating services are more likely to be seriously interested in building a relationship, rather than looking for a minimally committed, casual relationship, so if true love is your goal, isn’t that worth a few bucks?

2. Limit the Amount of Information You Provide

Resist the urge to tell your life story, listing everything from your occupation to your first dog named Cuddles.  This is not only annoying – it’s also dangerous. 

With today’s technology, all anyone needs is something as simple as your home phone number or last name to figure out things like your address and income information.  Now’s the chance to play the role you’ve always wanted to: the mysterious temptress.

3. Use an Anonymous E-mail Address

Your best bet is to set up an email account you use solely for internet dating and make sure not to include specific identifying information in the address itself.  SoccerFan123 works better than JaneDoefromChicago. For regular mail, set up a P.O. Box.

4. Be Honest

While you don’t want to provide too much information about yourself, you also shouldn’t lie.  Don’t set up false expectations by concealing the truth. This will only lead to resentment later.  For dating both online and off, honesty is your best policy. 

5. Do Your Own Research

…