Online Dating Safety Tips

Protect yourself and others while navigating the world of online dating

Protect Your Identity

Creating an online dating profile is the first step toward finding a match. However, it is essential to protect your personal information from strangers. When setting up your profile, avoid sharing specific details that could reveal your location, such as your home address or workplace

  • Use a unique profile picture not linked to your social media accounts.
  • Avoid sharing photos with identifiable landmarks or locations.
  • Never disclose sensitive information such as your home address, phone number, or financial details.

Password & Security

Always be mindful of your online security. When accessing your dating profile from public or shared computers, make sure no one can see or record your password.

  • Use secure, private devices when accessing your dating profile.
  • Ensure your security software and password managers are up-to-date.
  • Avoid clicking on unknown links or opening attachments from unfamiliar contacts.
  • Enable biometric or strong password protection for your mobile device.

Connecting with New People

Getting to know someone online requires time and patience. Trust your instincts when interacting with new matches, and take advantage of the safety features provided by dating platforms. When you're ready, consider creating a separate email address for dating communications.

  • Communicate through the platform’s internal messaging system, which is often monitored for safety.
  • If anything feels uncomfortable or suspicious, discontinue communication immediately.
  • Consider creating a separate email address for dating-related communications.

Take Your Time

While it can be tempting to share personal information early, take your time and do not rush into revealing your life story. The goal is to build a genuine connection at a pace that feels comfortable for you.

Do Your Own Research

Dating services do their best to protect you, but they can't fully verify the background of every user. Always do your own research by searching for the person on social media or using a reverse image search to verify their profile picture.

  • Search their social media profiles to verify their identity.
  • Use reverse image search tools to check the authenticity of their photos.
  • If unsure, consider performing a background check.

Background & Health Checks

  • Get to know the person well before meeting in person.
  • Always meet in public places for your initial encounters.
  • If sexual contact is involved, consider obtaining an STD screening beforehand.

Age Verification

Unicornopoly is only available to users aged 18 and older. While we do not verify ages, it is your responsibility to ensure that any relationship is legally appropriate. Please report any underage users.

Money Requests Are a Red Flag

It is never acceptable for someone you've just met online to ask for money, no matter the situation. Always keep your financial information private.

Reporting Suspicious Behavior

If you encounter suspicious, threatening, or inappropriate behavior, report it immediately. Reporting helps protect the entire community.

Tips for a Safe First Date

  • Plan ahead by setting clear date details in advance.
  • Meet in a public place like a café or restaurant.
  • Know your boundaries and communicate them before the date.
  • Have an exit strategy in case you feel uncomfortable.

Spotting Scams

Unfortunately, online dating platforms can be targeted by scammers looking to exploit your trust. Here are some common red flags:

  • Watch for rapid declarations of love or affection.
  • Be cautious if requests for money are made, especially with urgent or emotional stories.
  • Avoid promises of “free” money or get-rich-quick schemes.
  • Be alert to attempts at blackmail using personal information.
  • Always report suspicious behavior immediately Contact Us.

Protect Yourself from Scammers

Be cautious of individuals who ask for money, share sob stories, or offer too-good-to-be-true opportunities. Keep your personal details private, and always trust your instincts

  • Never share bank or credit card details.
  • Be cautious of profiles with sob stories or "too-good-to-be-true" opportunities.
  • If something feels off, consult with friends or family for advice.

Be Aware of Red Flags

It's important to stay alert for signs that your match may not be who they claim to be:

  • Vague responses to direct questions.
  • Excessive intimacy too soon.
  • Requests for personal information under false pretenses.
  • Avoidance of video calls or unusual communication patterns.

Plan a Low-Risk Date

If you feel ready to meet in person, choose low-pressure, public locations such as:

  • Picnics
  • Outdoor activities like hiking or kayaking
  • Coffee shops or casual restaurants
  • Drive-in movies

Share Your Plans with a Trusted Friend

Before meeting someone new, always inform a friend or family member of your plans. Consider using your phone's location-sharing feature for added security.

Trust Your Instincts

Your intuition is a valuable tool. If something feels off, don't hesitate to remove yourself from the situation.

Reporting Abuse

If you encounter any suspicious or inappropriate behavior by any of our members Contact Us immediately! Your reports help keep the platform safe for everyone.


EXTERNAL RESOURCES

Please be aware that while adherence to safety guidelines and best practices can significantly reduce risk, no method is entirely foolproof. If you encounter a negative experience, it is important to understand that it is not your fault, and support is available. You are encouraged to report any incidents to us, and further information on how to do so can be found here.

For additional support, please refer to the resources listed below. If you are in immediate danger or require emergency assistance:
please contact 911 (U.S. or Canada) or your local law enforcement agency.

INSIDE THE US

If you feel you are in immediate danger, please call 911 or the number of emergency services in your area. Below are resources that can provide advice and support if you’ve had a bad experience with a match. We would like you to report any bad dates or violent incidents to our Trust & Safety team, so that we can take the appropriate action. You can view how to report a match here.

National Domestic Violence Hotline
Provides free and confidential support 24/7. If you or someone you know is experiencing relationship or domestic abuse in any form, help is available. Support is a call or chataway at:
Call 1-(800)-799-SAFE (7233)
Text "START" to 88788
or chat online at TheHotline.org

National Suicide Prevention Lifeline
988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline
Languages: English, Spanish
Hours: Available 24 Hours
Help is available speak with someone today.
Call 988
Text: 988
Video Phone for Deaf or Hearing Loss
Online Chat

RAINN National Sexual Assault Hotline
Call 1-(800)-656-HOPE (4673)
Official Website

Planned Parenthood
1-(800)-230-7526
Official Website

VictimConnect - Crime Victime Resource Center
1-855-4VICTIM (855-484-2846)
Official Website

National Center for Missing & Exploited Children
1-(800)- THE-LOST (843-5678)
Official Website

National Sexual Violence Resource Center
1-877-739-3895
Official Website

National Human Trafficking Hotline
1-888-373-7888
Text 233733
TTY: 711
Online Chat
Official Website

Cyber Civil Rights Initiative
1-844-878-2274
Official Website

FBI Internet Crime Complaint Center
Official Website

LGBTQ National Help Center
1-888-843-4564
Official Website

Trans Lifeline
1-877-565-8860 (US)
1-877-330-6366 (CA)
Official Website


OUTSIDE THE US

No More Global Directory
Official Website

Find A Helpline
Official Website

Global Modern Slavery Directory
Official Website

ILGA
Official Website

Match Group Internationial
Official Website


Tools to Protect Your Children from Adult Sites

  • Net Nanny: Offers real-time monitoring, internet filters, and alerts for suspicious behavior.
  • SafeToNet: (Formally: CyberPatrol) Provides customizable filtering options and detailed activity reports.
  • Safety Surf: Offers secure browsing and content filtering for children of various age groups.
  • GetNetWise: A comprehensive resource offering tips, tools, and advice on keeping children safe online.