Dating Information

We would like to take a few minutes of your time to discuss safety while using online dating websites. While online dating is safe, fun and affordable, it also can bring unwanted attention in many ways. To minimize the potential for anything other than the BEST- please read the following tips.

1)

Other than in which state you reside, please keep your specific information to yourself as you meet your new friends. There may be unsavory characters who will try to trick you into revealing your part of the state or which town you reside in. Do not divulge that information until you feel sure it is safe. You should feel comfortable revealing WHERE to your new friend.

2)

Keep your private email PRIVATE! A lot of people want to join an online dating community, but not pay for the privilege of getting to know you. The safety in JOINING an online dating website is we have your REAL information. Should it ever be necessary, we can track down anyone who has paid for a membership. This ensures your safety. Don't be misled by phony people who are on the FREE ride. That makes them cheap and who needs a cheap date? Of course, there are some people who "test the waters" before joining and I am not referring to those folks. I am referring to the people who put their throw away emails in their ads and ask that you contact them off the website. This means you have now given someone you don't know your real email address unless you too, create a throwaway email address.

3)

Please post pictures that are current and be truthful about your age. Current is a year or less. You want people to be honest with you. Give that honesty FIRST!

4)

Take your time developing your Profile. Many people tend to gloss over the narrative (hobbies, interests and activities, etc) but that is what will make you stand out from the crowd. Write it in Word first and then copy into the dating profile. This way you can read for grammar and typos that show up when someone just wings it.

5)

Define the kind of relationship you are seeking. If you are looking for a companion but don't want to be married SAY SO! That way you won't meet a wonderful person who is looking for a husband or wife. Just be honest about what you seek. And give yourself the option to change your mind.

6)

BEWARE of those people who ask you a lot of questions about your life, and lifestyle but offer little of substance in return. It would be a smart thing to have a folder where you store all email correspondence and keep track of what your potential new friend says and has said. Any inconsistencies are RED FLAGS. Please do not ignore them! Many people have signatures attached to their emails. Turn this feature off if it contains information such as a job number or a company name (even if you are self employed).

7)

No one should ask for personal information! Not ever! Email relationships tend to take on a life of their own. You can and do get a good feel for people but con artists DO prey on seniors. Let the information flow but pay attention to what you divulge, and how soon you give up personal information. Your finances and or financial situation are strictly off limits. Anyone who dares asks such information should be cut off and report to the website monitors. They can handle the situation, as they deem necessary.

8)

You should use a cell number as a contact number until you REALLY get to know someone well. That would be more than just one date. SAFETY FIRST! This might seem to be a pain but think for a moment. If your home phone number is listed, anyone can look it up online using a reverse directory. With that info they can get directions to your HOME! Keep your home number private for as long as you need to verify all the information on your new friend.

9)

First date can be wonderful ways to finally meet your new friend and what I will tell you is the same as you have heard before. ALWAYS meet in public in a place where there is ample parking close to the entrance. Make sure someone knows where you are and have him or her call you a few minutes after your meeting time to ensure you arrived safely. It will also let the other person know that someone knows where you are and whom you are meeting. Have this same person verify your safe return home or meet them at another public place not far from your original meeting place. Coffee or lunch dates are a great way to start a new friendship.

10)

TAKE YOUR TIME! Online dating is fun and should be an enjoyable, safe way to meet people in your own time from the safety and comfort of your home. Don't rush into a relationship. Let it move as slowly as you need to be comfortable. LISTEN to your gut feelings on your potential new friends. Have fun and good luck in your search for a special friend or potential partner!

Michelle Smith-Billups is the owner of several online dating websites. Her company, Ebony 1st Impressions believes that by focusing on your inner growth, your inherent spirituality, and your inner peace will bring you mate of your dreams.

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