Online Dating Safety
Whilst the majority of our members are sincere and honest in the information they provide, as always exceptions do exist. Every partner proposal you receive has been stringently verified. This process removes the majority of these rogue accounts. Given the sophistication of modern day scammers, here are six additional tips on how you can confirm the authenticity of a profile and protect yourself against fraud.
1. Question unrealistic information
If your partner proposal is a 22 year old surgeon, or you come across a stockbroker who claims that money is not important, then it’s completely acceptable for you to be sceptical. Always avoid contact if you’re in any doubt about the information provided on a profile.
2. Be mindful of your personal information
Being curious about someone you’ve met via online dating is completely natural. You may want to find out more about them and decide to call as soon as possible, to hear the sympathetic voice behind the emails. Before giving out ANY personal information such as your phone number or email address, reflect upon that fact that you cannot take this information back. Of course, in the dating process it’s essential to exchange personal information, but only proceed if you feel comfortable doing so. If your match is excessively demanding it can be a warning sign. Some users have reported success setting up online dating email accounts, used for the express purpose of contacting potential partners to organise meetings.
Beware of users who send you a private email address or links to an external website on your first communication, as these often act as cover for phishing attempts. EliteSingles dating site is designed with security in mind, we’re always monitoring suspicious users activities and will alert you accordingly. Because of this, communicating via our platform is the safest way to proceed until you get to know the individual in person.
3. Financial requests
If your partner suggestion asks you to either make or receive any form of financial payment, cease all contact immediately and report the profile to customer care. This is one of the main fraudulent account ‘red-flags’ and it often only becomes apparent after initial contact has been made.
4. Don’t rush
It is important that you feel comfortable when making the decision to deepen your relationship with a partner proposal. Only provide your mobile phone number if you feel safe and comfortable doing so. Do not let yourself be pressured into meeting someone you are unsure of. It is important to explain this to your partner and if they don’t take your wishes into account it’s best to not contact them further.
5. Plan a safe meeting
Your first meeting is definitely something to be excited about! After all, it’s the initial step in the process of getting to know your future partner. Even if you feel you’ve become closer to them via email and phone, you should still remember that this person is still largely a stranger to you. Therefore it’s important that you take the following points into consideration:
a) Choose a neutral location, such as a coffee shop or a restaurant. Do not go to their house, or invite them to yours for the first date.
b) Tell your friends, family or someone you trust that you are going on a date and with whom.
c) Try not to drink too much alcohol.
d) Do not leave your personal belongings unattended.
6. Share your thoughts
In order to guarantee the authenticity of your recommended partners, we need your help. Email our customer care department at [email protected] if you suspect a profile contains false information or is behaving in a fraudulent manner. We wish you all the best in your search for a partner and would like you to remain safe while doing so.
The EliteSingles team.