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Online dating safety checklist

Updated October 2026

Most people you meet online are who they say they are. These habits protect you from the few who aren't.

Before you match

  • Choose sites with verification. Photo or ID verification makes fake profiles much rarer. Bumble, Hinge, Tinder and Coffee Meets Bagel all offer it.
  • Keep your profile vague about where you live and work. Your neighborhood and job title are enough to find you.
  • Use photos that aren't on your social media. A reverse image search could otherwise lead someone to your accounts.

Signs of a fake profile or scam

  • They want to move to text, WhatsApp or email right away.
  • They're always traveling, deployed or working overseas, and can never video chat.
  • They profess strong feelings very quickly.
  • They ask for money, gift cards or crypto, for any reason. This is always a scam.
  • Their photos look professional, or a reverse image search finds them under another name.

If you see these signs, stop replying and report the profile on the app.

Before you meet

  • Do a short video call first. It's the fastest way to confirm someone is real.
  • Tell a friend where you're going and who you're meeting. Many apps have a share-your-date feature.
  • Meet in a public place and get there and back on your own.
  • Keep your drink with you, and leave whenever you want to.

Protect your data

Several big dating sites have had data breaches, including Ashley Madison in 2015 and AdultFriendFinder in 2016. Use a separate email address for dating, a unique password, and an app-based or private phone number where the site offers one.

If you're ever in danger, call 911. To report a romance scam in the US, use the FTC's reporting site at reportfraud.ftc.gov.