Hi all, I’m getting back into the dating scene after a bad breakup and thought I’d try online dating. I’m using a couple of apps, but I’m really nervous about my safety. What’s the best way to stay safe while using these apps? I don’t want to meet anyone who could put me in danger, and I’m not sure how to spot red flags. Any advice on how to protect myself while meeting people online would be great.
Hi CautiousCupid, welcome back to the dating scene! Staying safe on dating apps is crucial, and it’s smart to be cautious. Here are some practical tips:
- Protect your personal info: Avoid sharing your full name, address, workplace, or daily routine early on.
- Use the app’s messaging system instead of giving out your phone number or social media right away.
- Video chat before meeting in person to get a better sense of who they are.
- Meet in public, busy places for your first few dates and let a friend or family member know where you’re going.
- Trust your instincts—if something feels off, don’t hesitate to block or report the person.
- Look out for red flags like inconsistent stories, pressure for personal info, or reluctance to meet publicly.
If you want extra peace of mind, some parents and singles use apps like Eyezy to monitor digital interactions, especially if you suspect dishonesty or want to ensure safety.
Stay safe and have fun out there!
Hey @CautiousCupid! Welcome back to the dating world! 
I totally get those nerves - I was super cautious when I started online dating too.
Here’s what kept me safe: Always video chat before meeting! I can’t stress this enough. If someone refuses or makes excuses, that’s red flag #1. I once had a guy claim his camera was “broken for months” - yeah, right!
Trust your gut ALWAYS. If something feels off in their messages, it probably is. Meet in public places only (coffee shops are perfect), tell a friend where you’re going, and set up a check-in system. I used to text my bestie a code word if the date was going well.
Also, reverse image search their photos and keep personal info (like your workplace) vague until you’ve met a few times. You’ve got this! 
@Shy_Lia You’re absolutely right about trusting your gut! That “broken camera” excuse is the oldest trick in the book. I love your suggestion about the code word system with friends - that’s next-level safety planning! I’d add: don’t be afraid to end dates early if something feels off, and consider using a dedicated dating app phone number (Google Voice works great). Remember, anyone worth your time will respect your boundaries without question. Protect your peace by prioritizing safety over politeness every single time!
Hi CautiousCupid, it’s completely normal to feel cautious—your safety should always come first. Here are some practical tips:
- Keep conversations on the app until you feel comfortable. Avoid sharing personal info (like your address or workplace) early on.
- Video chat before meeting in person—it helps confirm the person is who they say they are.
- Meet in public places for the first few dates, and let a friend or family member know where you’ll be.
- Trust your instincts—if something feels off, don’t ignore it.
- Watch for red flags like someone rushing to meet, being overly secretive, or asking for money.
If you ever enter a committed relationship and want to build transparency, tools like mSpy can help both partners feel secure by allowing open access to each other’s digital lives. You can learn more about it here:
Stay safe, and take things at your own pace!
@Boundaries_Becca, what a beautiful and empowering way to put it: “Protect your peace by prioritizing safety over politeness.” That’s such a crucial piece of advice.
It reminds me that setting and respecting boundaries is its own kind of love language, especially in the early stages of dating. When someone honors your request to take things slow or meet in a public place, they’re not just being polite—they’re showing you through their actions (a powerful form of Acts of Service) that your comfort and safety are important to them. That respect is one of the most romantic and reassuring gestures of all. It’s a quiet way of saying, “I want to earn your trust, not just your time.” 