Safety
Online Dating Safety
Most people you meet online are genuine — but a few simple habits protect you from the ones who aren’t.
The 5 golden rules
- Never send money, gift cards or crypto to someone you haven’t met.
- Video chat before meeting in person.
- Stay on the dating site until you trust someone.
- Meet in public and arrange your own transport.
- Tell a friend where you’re going.
Safety guides
- Safety How to Spot a Catfish on Dating Sites and Apps Is your match real? Learn the catfish dating signs and five checks you can run in minutes. Also covers kittenfishing, AI photos and what to do next.
- Safety Romance Scams: 12 Warning Signs and How to Protect Yourself Worried someone is not who they say? Learn the warning signs of romance scams and what to do next. See how dating site scams start and where to report them.
- Safety How to Verify Someone You Met Online (Step by Step) Not sure your match is who they say? Here’s how to verify someone you met online in seven steps, from reverse image search to a safe first meeting.
If you are in immediate danger, call your local emergency number. This site provides general information, not legal advice.