Meeting someone you met online can be nerve-wracking, but staying safe is essential. As much as mainstream media doesn’t cover many crimes that result from online dating and hookups, it is crucial to be aware. Even when you use the best sites from the article lists, it is only right to follow the safety tips listed in this article for a worthwhile venture.  Here are some ideas to help you have a successful meeting without feeling anxious or unsafe:

Meet in a Public Place

The best way to stay safe when meeting with an online date is to meet in a public place. It will allow you to have other people around if something goes wrong. Choose a well-lit and busy area with plenty of people around if you need help.

Tell a Friend Where You’re Going and What Time You’ll Return

Another important online dating safety tip is to let a friend or family member know where you’re going and what time you expect to be back. It’s always best to meet in a public place for the first time and, if possible, have that initial meeting during daylight hours. If you must meet at night, make sure it’s in a well-lit area. And, of course, if you start to feel unsafe at any time during the date, make your excuses and leave.

Don’t Share Personal Information

No matter how well you think you know someone, it’s important to remember that they are still a stranger. Until you have built up a level of trust, keep personal information to yourself. It includes your home address, phone number, place of work, and anything else that you could use to track you down in real life.

Be Aware of Your Surroundings

When you’re meeting someone for the first time, it’s important to be aware of your surroundings. It means being aware of who is around you, what they’re doing, and how they might be feeling. If you feel like something is off or if someone makes you feel uncomfortable, trust your gut and remove yourself from the situation as quickly as possible.

Drink Responsibly

Last but not least, if you’re meeting someone for the first time in person, it’s important to drink responsibly. It means not drinking too much so that you cannot make moral decisions or take care of yourself. It’s also important to know that some people may try to take advantage of you if they offer multiple drinks. If you’re not comfortable drinking around your date, it’s perfectly fine to say no or stick to water or soda. By following these online dating safety tips, you can help protect yourself from becoming a victim of crime.

Remember, meeting someone online is still meeting a stranger, so it’s crucial to be cautious and always put your safety first.…