FIVE TIPS TO HELP YOU KEEP YOURSELF SAFE IN THE ONLINE DATING POOL

1 BE HONEST Don’t put up a picture that doesn’t accurately represent you, especially as you are right now. If you’ve changed your hairstyle or gained or lost a significant amount of weight, don’t use an outdated image on any online profile. Show scenarios of yourself in your everyday life doing the things you like to do. Obviously, the more provocative the picture, the more pervs you’ll attract.

2 BE CLEAR ABOUT YOUR VIEWS If you don’t like long walks on the beach, say so. Here’s a way to be upfront about your view on drinking: “If you enjoy drinking on a daily basis, you’ll be happier elsewhere.” No judgment, no apologies. No confusion about the definition of social drinking.

3 HAVE A CONVERSATION AHEAD OF TIME Chat on the phone, don’t just text. Have a real conversation for at least 20 minutes. You can pick up a lot from speaking to someone: inflection, age appropriateness, etc. Don’t be afraid to ask questions and throw some friendly banter in among the questions so it doesn’t sound like an interrogation.

4 DETERMINE IF THEY’RE HOT Whether or not you find them attractive is up to you, of course, but in this case HOT means do they have Housing, Occupation (their own cash flow) and Transportation? Because whatever they lack in any of those areas, they’re looking for someone else to provide it. And you’re looking for a date, not a project. Of course, you should also be HOT yourself.

5 LOOK UP YOUR POTENTIAL DATE ONLINE And check their social media before going on a date with them. If you can’t find them on any social media platform, it may be a red flag.